Testing Breakthroughs

While still in the experimental stages, a new imaging system holds promise as a cheaper alternative to MRIs. Molecular breast imaging (MBI), utilizes an injection of tracer particles that are only picked up by cells that are more active than normal, such as cancer cells. A camera then picks up the gamma rays emitted by the tracer particles.

Early tests have shown the technique as very effective. In one trial of 48 patients suspected of having breast cancer, the MBI picked up evidence of disease in 47 of the patients (patients were also given an MRI which picked up cancers in all 48 patients). In another small study, the MBI again performed almost as well as the MRI.

MBI is four-to-six times less expensive than an MRI exam in both breasts, has no issues with breast density, and gives fewer false positives than an MRI. MBI is currently only available as part of research studies today – but I am sure you will agree with me that we need to figure out how to get it to market and fast.

Not as accurate but still interesting, a new test that detects the presence of breast cancer by examining a woman’s hair is showing good results in clinical trials. Fermiscan, the Australian company developing the test, recently completed a trial that yielded an accuracy rate of 69% in detecting breast cancer using the test. Hair that has been treated with dyes or other chemicals often gives skewed results; removing those samples yields a 75% accuracy rate. Among women referred for a biopsy by a mammogram or ultrasound, Fermiscan correctly identified 80% of the negative biopsy results.

Based on changes in the hair structure that can be identified using a technique called x-ray diffraction, Fermiscan is designed to be used along with other diagnostic techniques in order to achieve the best results possible. Research about Fermiscan’s technique has been published in journals such as Nature and the International Journal of Cancer.

Although a test result that yields a 75% accuracy rate is a long way from “prime time” usage, Fermiscan is continuing to work with cancer centers around the world to improve its test results. There is no estimated date for commercial release at this point.

Which of these tests do you think will make it to market faster?

http://health.usnews.com/articles/health/healthday/2008/06/26/experimental-imaging-system-helps-detect-breast.html
http://www.medicexchange.com/Breast-Imaging/news.aspx/14342/Detecting-breast-cancer-with-hair