Ultrasound for cancer diagnosis
PUBLISHED: 21 June 2010 + CATEGORY: Case Studies
NPL is investigating whether a new form of ultrasound technology can reliably diagnose breast cancers.
A new kind of ultrasonic detector, developed and patented by NPL, could lead to improved diagnosis of breast cancers, which is particularly important for women under 35.
It is estimated that 1 in 10 of cancers in this age group currently go undetected, so a more successful screening method is urgently required to ensure prompt diagnosis. As with all cancers, detecting breast cancer in its early stages can be crucial to the patient's survival.
It is hoped that NPL's patented technology could eventually produce more accurate 3D reconstructions of tissue structure. Improved imaging and decision making could mean fewer women having to undergo invasive biopsies, whilst remaining confident that the diagnosis is correct. Fewer biopsies would also save the NHS money.
The research arm of the NHS, the National Institute of Health Research, is funding NPL's involvement in this feasibility study under its Invention for Innovation funding stream. NPL is collaborating with a clinical partner, University Hospitals Bristol NHS Foundation Trust, who are a leading UK centre in breast screening using ultrasound.
Published: 29 Apr 2010