New directions for optical breast imaging and sensing: Multimodal cancer imaging and lactation research

We provide an overview of optical methods used in breast imaging and monitoring. We discuss limitations and opportunities, and present new directions where biomedical optics can play a role in breast health. One direction regards steps to bring the promise of photoacoustic breast imaging to fruition. We argue that a hybrid approach, combining photoacoustics with ultrasound imaging, is important for comprehensive evaluation of breast lesions. Such an approach combined with multi-parameter quantitation can provide the necessary breakthrough in breast cancer management. Another direction involves the application of existing optical modalities for the breast to an entirely new application area: human lactation research. Whereas breastfeeding plays a crucial role in public health, many breastfeeding problems are not well understood and breastfeeding rates need to be improved. We describe how current optical imaging and sensing modalities can play a role in obtaining fundamental knowledge into the origin and treatment of breastfeeding problems.