(P) Innovations in breast cancer detection: what new technologies are available? : VIRGIN RADIO ROMANIA

In the medical world, technological advances offer new hope for early detection of breast cancer. Next, you will discover the latest and most effective screening methods, from tomosynthesis mammography to positron emission tomography; you will familiarize yourself with how Artificial Intelligence is making its way into the fight against this disease and learn about the innovations that can protect you!

Mammography with tomosynthesis (3D mammography), assisted by Artificial Intelligence

The cutting edge technology in mammography is tomosynthesis mammography, often called 3D mammography. This is an advanced technique that overcomes the limitations of traditional mammography by creating a three-dimensional image of the breast. In this process, a number of 2D images are captured from different angles as the X-ray tube moves in an arc over the breast. These 2D images are then combined to create a 3D image, which provides a more detailed view of the breast tissue.

A major advantage of this technology is the assistance provided by artificial intelligence (AI). AI can help interpret 3D mammography results, identifying patterns that might be overlooked by doctors. By using sophisticated machine learning algorithms, AI can quickly analyze and interpret images, reducing the time required for diagnosis while increasing its accuracy [1].

For patients facing the risk of breast cancer, the use of this new type of mammography can bring a number of significant benefits. Thanks to the additional detail provided by the 3D image, breast cancer can be detected with much greater accuracy, which means fewer false positives and a reduction in radiation exposure. In addition, AI can help identify tumors in early stages, when treatment is usually more effective. Find out what the price is for a mammogram at one of the clinics dedicated to women’s health!

Breast elastography

Breast elastography is a relatively new method in the field of medical imaging, which measures the elasticity of breast tissues. In principle, this is based on the fact that normal and pathological tissues have differences in consistency, and cancerous ones are usually more rigid. The technology is based on ultrasound and is non-invasive, giving doctors the ability to distinguish between benign and malignant lesions with greater accuracy than traditional methods [2].

The advantages of breast elastography are multiple. First of all, it is a non-invasive process, which means that it does not involve any kind of pain or discomfort for the patient. It also involves no radiation exposure. Moreover, elastography can provide detailed images of tissues, making it easier to detect small lesions and monitor their evolution over time.

Although breast elastography cannot completely replace traditional diagnostic methods such as mammography or biopsy, it can play a crucial role in establishing a treatment plan for breast cancer. For example, if a lesion is identified as rigid, the doctor may decide to perform a biopsy to confirm whether it is cancer or not [1].

Positron emission tomography (PET)

Positron emission tomography (PET) is an advanced nuclear imaging technology. It uses a special camera and a radioactive compound to depict in detail the functioning of organs and tissues in the body. Not only does it provide detailed images of the body’s structure, it also provides essential information about its functioning. In essence, PET provides a holistic picture of the body, which can be particularly useful in the diagnosis and treatment of various diseases, including breast cancer.

The use of PET in the diagnosis of breast cancer presents numerous advantages. This method is more sensitive in detecting cancer cells compared to other imaging technologies. That’s because it can identify metabolic changes in cancer cells before they become visible on other types of scans. Furthermore, PET can help identify the spread of cancer to other parts of the body, which can be helpful in planning treatment [3].

However, PET is not perfect. Despite its considerable advantages, there are also some limitations. For example, not all small tumors can be detected by PET. Also, although PET is excellent for visualizing metabolic changes, it may be less effective at providing a detailed image of anatomical structure [2].

We have explored various innovative technologies in breast cancer detection, including tomosynthesis mammography (3D mammography), artificial intelligence, breast elastography and positron emission tomography (PET). All this represents a huge leap towards an early and accurate diagnosis. Make your doctor a partner in keeping your health!

source:

1. “Breast Cancer Early Detection and Diagnosis | How to Detect Breast Cancer.” www.cancer.orgwww.cancer.org/cancer/types/breast-cancer/screening-tests-and-early-detection.html, accessed on 2.05.2024;
2. CDC. “What Is Breast Cancer Screening?” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Sept. 22 2021, www.cdc.gov/cancer/breast/basic_info/screening.htm#:~:text=if%20you%20qualify.-, accessed 2.05.2024;
3. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. “How Is Breast Cancer Diagnosed? .” CDC2019, www.cdc.gov/cancer/breast/basic_info/diagnosis.htm, accessed on 2.05.2024.