"Smart Probe" Detects Malignant Tumors Instantly.

2001 FEB 1 -- (NewsRx.com) -- The pain and anxiety women experience undergoing breast cancer tests and awaiting the results might soon be lessened due to the "Smart Probe," which can instantly detect cancerous tissue.

Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory has partnered with BioLuminate, Inc., San Jose, California, to develop Smart Probe, a tool for earlier, more accurate breast cancer detection that removes no tissue and is expected to achieve accuracy levels comparable to surgical biopsies in detecting cancerous cells.

The BioLuminate Smart Probe, smaller than the needle used in routine blood tests, is inserted into breast tissue after an initial screening indicates an area of concern. The probe looks for multiple known indicators of breast cancer, instantaneously providing physicians with information they can use to determine whether more invasive and costly tests are necessary.

The results of the Smart Probe procedure are immediately available to patients, helping relieve anxiety. First human studies using the device are expected to begin in Spring 2001 at sites to be selected in Northern California.

"Physicians have been seeking a way to acquire more specific information about a suspected cancer site before performing a biopsy or surgery," said Neil Gorrin, MD, Kaiser Permanente Medical Center in South San Francisco. "The Smart Probe not only is less invasive, but it provides several ...