Diffuse optical mammography

Diffuse Optical Mammography (pronunciation: dih-fyoos op-ti-kuhl mam-uh-gruh-fee) is a non-invasive imaging technique used in the field of breast imaging and breast cancer detection.

Etymology

The term 'Diffuse Optical Mammography' is derived from the Latin word 'diffusus', meaning 'spread out', the Greek word 'optikos', meaning 'of sight', and the Greek word 'mammos', meaning 'breast', and 'graphia', meaning 'to write or record'.

Overview

Diffuse Optical Mammography uses near-infrared light to create images of the breast tissue. The technique is based on the principle that light in the near-infrared spectrum can penetrate tissue and is absorbed by hemoglobin, water, and lipids to different extents. By measuring the absorption and scattering of light, it is possible to obtain information about the tissue's composition and structure, which can be used to detect abnormalities such as tumors.

Procedure

During a Diffuse Optical Mammography examination, the patient lies on a table with the breast positioned in a cup-like device. Near-infrared light is then shone into the breast, and the scattered light is detected by sensors placed around the breast. The data collected by the sensors is then used to create a three-dimensional image of the breast tissue.

Advantages

Diffuse Optical Mammography has several advantages over traditional mammography. It does not involve ionizing radiation, making it safer for repeated use. It can also provide functional information about the breast tissue, such as blood oxygenation levels, which can be useful in detecting and monitoring the response to treatment in breast cancer.

Related Terms

• Breast Imaging
• Breast Cancer
• Mammography
• Hemoglobin
• Water
• Lipids

External links

• Medical encyclopedia article on Diffuse optical mammography
• Wikipedia's article - Diffuse optical mammography

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