Philips, UC Irvine Partner in Breast Cancer Screening Study

Royal Philips and the University of California-Irvine are partnering to explore how spectral breast imaging can improve breast density measurement using Philip’s MicroDose SI mammography spectral imaging technology.

According to the Dutch firm, studies have shown that the risk of developing breast cancer is four to six times higher in women with high breast density, compared with women with little or no dense tissue. Higher density also makes breast cancer more difficult to detect by mammography.

MicroDose SI uses photon counting technology to acquire spectral data of the adipose and fibroglandular tissue within a single exposure of a low-dose mammogram. This provides an objective volumetric breast density measurement, as opposed to an estimate, which paves the way for refined risk assessment and personalized care, Philips said.

The first phase of the study will focus on assessing the accuracy of spectral imaging by analyzing 40 postmortem breasts and comparing results with chemical analysis. The study is expected to be completed within two years, the company said. — Kellen Owings