A System for Non-Invasively Classification of Different Types of Micro-Calcifications in Human Tissue

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This invention describes a non-invasive mammography system that classifies the two main types of micro-calcifications found in human breast tissue (associated with either benign or malignant lesions) by simultaneously analyzing their x-ray absorption and small-angle scattering signals. By capturing and processing both signals with specialized x-ray imaging setups (like grating-based interferometers), the system can distinguish the calcification types, thereby improving the accuracy of early breast cancer diagnosis without the need for tissue biopsies.

Use CasesContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Early and more accurate breast cancer screening during routine mammography
• Reducing unnecessary biopsies in patients with detected breast micro-calcifications
• Improving radiological interpretations and computer-aided diagnostics in breast imaging centers
• Providing researchers and clinicians with chemical and structural information about micro-calcifications in situ
• Integrating into advanced medical imaging systems, such as dual-modality x-ray or CT systems for enhanced diagnosis

BenefitsContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Non-invasive classification of calcification types, sparing patients from surgical or needle biopsies
• Increases diagnostic accuracy in mammography by providing both structural and chemical information
• Helps to differentiate benign from malignant lesions earlier, supporting timely intervention
• Reduces false positives and the associated patient stress and healthcare costs
• Compatible with conventional x-ray equipment when adapted with advanced interferometry setups
• Facilitates automated analysis and improves workflow for radiologists

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Patent Abstract

The present invention proposes a noninvasive method to distinguish two types of (micro)-calcification by x-ray imaging in mammography. Two major types of (micro)- calcification are found and confirmed by histopathology and they are correlated to benign and malignant breast lesions. Distinguishing them noninvasively will significantly improve early breast cancer diagnosis. This invention is based on the fact that these two types of (micro)- calcifications show opposite absorption and small-angle scattering signals in x-ray imaging. The imaging system, which can record these two signals of the breast tissue simultaneously (for instance, an x-ray grating interferometer), can be used to uniquely determine the micro- calcification type. The suggested invention is expected to be used in mammography to improve early breast cancer diagnosis, increase diagnosis accuracy and decrease the biopsy rate.