Breast Cancer NIR Spectroscopy Using Reference-Region Light Ratios
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing breast cancer diagnosis methods, such as mammography and diffuse optical tomography, struggle to accurately differentiate breast tissue from cancer due to low X-ray absorption differences or require complex signal processing.
Innovation Solution
A breast cancer diagnosis apparatus using DMW-NIRS (Discrete Multi Wavelength Near Infra-Red Spectroscopy) that irradiates multiple near-infrared wavelengths, calculates a breast cancer index based on the ratio of output light from diagnostic and reference regions, and utilizes a control unit to process optical data for accurate diagnosis.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If mammography using X-rays is used to detect breast lesions, then the diagnosis can be performed, but it is difficult to distinguish cancer from breast tissue because the difference in X-ray absorption rate between breast tissue and cancer is very small
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the measurement parameter from X-ray absorption rate to near-infrared light absorption rate. By using multiple wavelengths of near-infrared light and measuring their absorption characteristics, the system achieves better differentiation between cancerous and normal breast tissues. The near-infrared region provides superior contrast for detecting cancerous lesions compared to the X-ray region, as cancerous tissues exhibit distinct absorption patterns in the near-infrared spectrum.
2Measurement precision
If diffuse optical tomography is used to acquire images of breast tissues, then cancer can be diagnosed, but the signal processing becomes complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the breast tissue into multiple regions of interest (ROIs) and analyzes each region separately. By dividing the complex breast tissue into distinct areas and calculating absorption coefficients for each ROI, the system simplifies the overall signal processing while maintaining imaging capability. This segmentation approach allows for more manageable data processing and interpretation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies local quality analysis by calculating absorption coefficients specifically for each region of interest and comparing them against reference values. Instead of processing the entire breast tissue as a uniform structure, the system focuses on local characteristics of specific regions, making the signal processing more targeted and less complex while preserving diagnostic accuracy.
3Measurement precision
If multiple wavelengths of near-infrared light are irradiated to the subject, then the breast cancer index can be calculated with higher accuracy, but the measurement time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs periodic action by sequentially irradiating the breast tissue with multiple wavelengths of near-infrared light in a systematic sequence. Each wavelength is measured in turn, and the absorption coefficients are calculated based on these sequential measurements. This periodic measurement approach allows for accurate multi-wavelength analysis while managing measurement time through efficient sequencing and processing.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Facilitates easy identification of breast cancer by comparing output light data from diagnostic and reference regions, enhancing diagnostic accuracy and convenience through wide-area scanning and simplified data processing.
Implementation Method 1
a near-infrared light source that irradiates multiple wavelengths of light to a subject, and an optical detector that receives output light from the subject
Implementation Method 2
calculates an absorption coefficient of the subject at each wavelength
Data Source
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AI summary
A breast cancer diagnosis apparatus according to the present invention comprises: a memory in which a breast cancer diagnosis program is stored; and a processor configured to execute the breast cancer diagnosis program, wherein the breast cancer diagnosis program is configured to sequentially irradiate a subject with light of multiple wavelengths in the near-infrared region, receive output light from the subject for each wavelength according to the irradiation, and calculate a breast cancer index using the intensity of the output light for each wavelength, wherein the breast cancer index is calculated based on a ratio of the output light from a reference region of the subject to the output light from a diagnostic target region.