Noninvasive intraductal fluid diagnostic screen
US6866994B2 · kind B2 · utility
15Cited by
80References
25Claims
0Family size
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | May 30, 2001 |
| Grant date | Mar 15, 2005 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | May 30, 2021 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61M2205/3653
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
Disclosed is a method and apparatus for accomplishing a noninvasive screen for breast disease markers, including breast cancer markers and cytologically abnormal cells. Intraductal fluid is noninvasively aspirated using compression, heating and suction cycles. The removed sample is thereafter assayed for the presence of cytologically abnormal cells and/or one or more breast disease markers. Sample size and intraductal mobility of breast disease markers may be enhanced by retrograde introduction of a carrier. Devices and assays are also disclosed.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.