Method and apparatus for noninvasive intraductal fluid diagnostic screen
US6875184B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Feb 8, 2002 |
| Grant date | Apr 5, 2005 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Dec 1, 2022 |
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. In addition to the diagnostic applications of the disclosed method and apparatus, a therapeutic application is also contemplated wherein intraductal fluids are noninvasively aspirated using compression, heating and suction cycles to remove toxic buildups within the fluid.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.