Use of digital infrared imaging in enhanced breast cancer detection and monitoring of the clinical response to treatment

Abstract

Infrared imaging of the breast has been primarily hampered by the many factors inherent in its technology. With the use of computer automated digital infrared technology, problems with subjectivity, reproducibility and spatial localization have been eliminated. The digital infrared imaging (DII) discussed herein has 99% detection sensitivity in a study of 109 tissue proven cases of breast cancer. Its sensitivity has been successfully demonstrated in lesions as small as 4 mm. Additionally, DII, can now be used in the clinical monitoring of localized breast cancer to access therapeutic response. In conjunction with mammography and ultrasound, DII can be utilized in the early detection of breast cancer.