Abstract
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.
Original language | English |
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Article number | 100380 |
Journal | Current Opinion in Biomedical Engineering |
Volume | 22 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - Jun 2022 |
Keywords
- Biomedical optics
- Breast cancer
- Lactation
- Photoacoustic imaging
- UT-Hybrid-D