Breast tissue classification using x-ray scattering measurements and multivariate data analysis.
This study utilized two radiation scatter interactions in order to differentiate malignant from non-malignant breast tissue. These two interactions were Compton scatter, used to measure the electron density of the tissues, and coherent scatter to obtain a measure of structure. Measurements of these parameters were made using a laboratory experimental set-up comprising an x-ray tube and HPGe detector. The breast tissue samples investigated comprise five different tissue classifications: adipose, malignancy, fibroadenoma, normal fibrous tissue and tissue that had undergone fibrocystic change. The coherent scatter spectra were analysed using a peak fitting routine, and a technique involving multivariate analysis was used to combine the peak fitted scatter profile spectra and the electron density values into a tissue classification model. The number of variables used in the model was refined by finding the sensitivity and specificity of each model and concentrating on differentiating between two tissues at a time. The best model that was formulated had a sensitivity of 54% and a specificity of 100%.
Ryan
Elaine A
EA
School of Allied Health Sciences, City University, Charterhouse Square, London EC1M 6PA, UK.
Farquharson
Michael J
MJ
D001940:Breast / Q000737:chemistry*; D001943:Breast Neoplasms / Q000737:chemistry* / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D006801:Humans; D011859:Radiography; D012542:Scattering, Radiation; D014965:X-Rays