Mammogram + Thermogram
Does Thermography “diagnose” cancer?
No diagnostic imaging method can actually diagnose cancer. They can show evidence of an issue that needs further investigation, such as a biopsy. Clinical examination of a biopsy is the only way to diagnose cancer. However, 90% of breast conditions are something other than cancer, such as cysts, hormonal thickening and fibroadenomas. When these types of conditions are diagnosed, thermography is an excellent tool to monitor progress of any treatment options, including nutrition and lifestyle changes that may help alleviate or reverse the condition. In addition, thermography is an excellent way to monitor the progress of treatment in the event of a positive cancer diagnosis.
Mammogram |
Thermogram |
|---|---|
| Uses X-rays to produce an image that is a shadow of dense structures. | Uses infrared sensors to detect heat and increased vascularity (angiogenesis) as the byproduct of biochemical reactions. The heat is compiled into an image for computerized analysis. |
| Structural imaging. Ability to locate the area of suspicious tissue. | Functional imaging. Detects physiologic changes. Cannot locate the exact area of suspicion inside the breast. |
| Early detection method. | Early detection method. Used as an adjunctive imaging test. |
| Findings increase suspicion. Cannot diagnose cancer. (Only a biopsy can verify this.) |
Findings increase suspicion. Cannot diagnose cancer. (Only a biopsy can verify this.) |
| Can detect tumors in the pre-invasive stage. | May provide the first signal that a problem is developing. |
| Average 80% Sensitivity (20% of cancers not detected), in women over age 50. Sensitivity decreases in women under age 50. | Average 90% Sensitivity (10% of cancers not detected) in ALL age groups. According to research in the Index Medicus. |
| Hormone use decreases sensitivity. | No known effect. |
| Large, dense, and fibrocystic breasts cause reading difficulties. | No effect. |
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