A group of scientists is working on an advanced X-ray imaging method that will aid in the detection and diagnosis of breast cancer. The noninvasive technology employs dyes known as contrast agents specifically designed to recognize and bind to breast cancer cells at the molecular level. When imaged with a special, cutting-edge computed tomography (CT) scanner called “photon-counting spectral CT,” the dyes will amplify the X-ray signal for tumors.
The contrast agents, in combination with X-ray imaging, spectral CT, and machine learning, could lead to a more precise diagnosis of the disease and greatly aid in early intervention. It is the first time that this type of collaborative research has been conducted. It emphasizes the significance of X-ray CT in medicine.
Unlike conventional CT scanner images, the multicolor, 3D X-ray images generated by spectral CT can aid in the visualization of tissue composition in the body based on the density and an atomic number of chemical elements found in those tissues.
It can help radiologists differentiate between healthy and cancerous tissue in the body. These images can be used to determine whether a cyst or tumor requires further examination or biopsy. Unlike other medical imaging techniques such as PET and SPECT, CT uses less energy to image patients and is faster, safer, and more comfortable.
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