Skin patches for indication-based, non-invasive early detection of a possible breast cancer recurrence using functionalized carbon nanotubes and optical evaluation

Abstract

Skin patch for indication-based, non-invasive early detection of a possible breast cancer recurrence by detecting tumor-associated volatile organic compounds (VOCs), comprehensive a) an upper layer of transparent, translucent polymer film that allows optical detection of a color change, b) a functional sensor layer containing single- or multi-walled functionalized carbon nanotubes (CNTs), in particular single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs), in a polymeric matrix, wherein the sensor layer exhibits a visually detectable, reproducible color change upon contact with at least one tumor-associated VOC, and c) a lower layer with medical-grade, skin-compatible silicone adhesive for temporary fixation of the skin patch to human skin.

Description

Technical field

[0001] The invention relates to the field of medical sensors and the non-invasive monitoring of biological parameters. In particular, the invention relates to a skin patch for the detection of tumor-associated volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and an optical evaluation system combined therewith. State of the art

[0002] In medical follow-up care, particularly after oncological diseases such as breast cancer, imaging techniques, laboratory analyses, or invasive examination methods are predominantly used to detect recurrence. These methods are costly, time-consuming, and only partially suitable for continuous monitoring. Portable, cost-effective sensor systems that are easy for laypersons to use for the early detection of tumor-associated metabolic changes are currently insufficiently available. Object of the invention

[0003] The object of the present invention is to provide a simple, cost-effective and non-invasive system that supports indication-based early detection of possible tumor-associated metabolic changes and enables low-threshold application in the context of medical follow-up care. Solution to the task

[0004] The problem is solved by a skin patch according to claim 1 and by a system according to the further claims. The skin patch comprises a transparent upper layer, a functional sensor layer with functionalized carbon nanotubes, and a skin-compatible adhesive layer. The sensor layer reacts upon contact with tumor-associated VOCs with a reproducible optical change. Brief description of the invention

[0005] The skin patch according to the invention is applied to the user's skin, preferably in the chest or upper body area. During the wearing period, volatile organic compounds released through the skin can come into contact with the sensor layer. This interaction leads to an optically detectable change in color or intensity, which can be detected visually or using mobile devices. Example of implementation

[0006] In a preferred embodiment, the sensor layer consists of functionalized single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) embedded in a biocompatible polymeric matrix, in particular polyethylene glycol (PEG). The upper layer consists of a translucent, biocompatible polymer film. The lower layer features a medical-grade, skin-compatible silicone adhesive that enables secure fixation of the skin patch to the skin for a period of 12 to 48 hours. System and evaluation

[0007] In another embodiment, the skin patch is part of a system that also includes a mobile application. The application is designed to capture an image of the skin patch, algorithmically evaluate the optical changes in the sensor layer, calculate relative concentration changes of tumor-associated VOCs, and issue a warning message if a defined threshold is exceeded. Advantages of the invention

[0008] The invention enables continuous, non-invasive, and cost-effective support for medical aftercare. It requires no laboratory analyses, is intended for single use, and can be applied without specialized medical expertise. The manufacturing costs of the skin patch are preferably less than €2 per unit. Medical note

[0009] The described skin patch and the associated system serve solely as a supplementary screening and early warning tool. They do not constitute a medical diagnosis and do not replace medical examinations, imaging studies, or laboratory-based diagnostic procedures. In the event of abnormal results, a consultation with a specialist is recommended.

Claims

[1] Skin patch for indication-based, non-invasive early detection of possible breast cancer recurrence by detection of tumor-associated volatile organic compounds (VOCs), comprehensive a) an upper layer of transparent, translucent polymer film that allows optical detection of a color change, b) a functional sensor layer containing single- or multi-walled functionalized carbon nanotubes (CNTs), in particular single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs), in a polymeric matrix, wherein the sensor layer exhibits a visually detectable, reproducible color change upon contact with at least one tumor-associated VOC, and c) a lower layer with medical-grade, skin-compatible silicone adhesive for temporary fixation of the skin patch to human skin. [2] Skin patch according to claim 1, wherein the polymeric matrix comprises polyethylene glycol (PEG), polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) or a functionally equivalent biocompatible polymer mixture. [3] Skin patch according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the functionalized carbon nanotubes react selectively to aromatic and aliphatic VOCs, in particular to isopropylbenzene and / or 2-methylpentane. [4] Skin patch according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the color change of the sensor layer takes place in the visible spectral range, in particular from blue to red or between functionally distinguishable color levels. [5] Skin patch according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the skin patch is designed for single use and has a wearing time of 12 to 72 hours, preferably 24 to 48 hours. [6] System comprising a skin patch according to any one of claims 1 to 5 and a mobile device application, wherein the application is configured to a) to take a picture of the skin patch using the camera of the terminal device, b) to algorithmically evaluate the color change of the sensor layer, c) to calculate a relative concentration of detected VOCs and d) to issue a warning signal when a defined threshold is exceeded. [7] System according to claim 6, wherein the mobile application generates a textual or visual warning message that recommends further medical evaluation. [8] Skin patch or system according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the system is designed exclusively as a supportive screening and early warning tool and does not replace a medical diagnosis.

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