Novel Photoacoustic Model Addresses Bias in Medical Sensors

Researchers in the UK are utilizing a unique combination of ultrasound and light to enhance the accuracy of medical sensors for various conditions, including cancers. The team at the University of Cambridge’s Cavendish Laboratory has devised a model that boosts the precision of photoacoustic sensors and is working on devices that extend beyond the visible spectrum. By employing different wavelengths of light, they aim to enable the early detection of cancer.

One of their primary projects involves photoacoustic imaging, which merges light and ultrasound technologies. Unlike traditional ultrasound scanners that rely on sound waves and echoes, photoacoustic imaging systems detect ultrasound signals produced when molecules absorb light and heat up. Thomas Else, a research associate in the team, highlighted the significance of this approach for cancer detection, noting that tumors typically exhibit lower oxygen levels due to their rapid growth.

While widely-used methods like MRI and X-ray mammography are effective for cancer detection, they are often bulky, expensive, and may involve ionizing radiation and discomfort. In contrast, photoacoustic imaging offers a safer and more cost-effective alternative. It can generate high-contrast images at the bedside, similar to ultrasound, making it suitable for long-term monitoring and a broader range of medical settings.

Photoacoustic imaging has already received regulatory approvals for breast cancer detection in Europe and the United States, positioning it as a promising substitute for conventional mammograms. However, challenges persist, particularly in individuals with darker skin tones. Melanin, the primary pigment affecting skin color, absorbs light, hindering its penetration through the skin for accurate measurements.

To address these challenges, the researchers are conducting comprehensive studies with diverse volunteers to refine the technology and ensure its effectiveness across different skin tones. Additionally, they are exploring the potential of photoacoustics in tailoring radiotherapy by understanding how cancers respond to treatment, potentially enabling more personalized radiation doses.