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Abstract

A device and method for the detection of tumors in human and animal tissue using transmission or reflection of nonionizing radiation, in particular, visible light having a wavelength most advantageously in the range of 400 to about 700 nanometers, and infrared light having a wavelength in the range of 700 nanometers to about 4 microns (4000 nanometers). Measurement of the amount of absorption and scatter in regions of the tissue involved is in a scanning mode to produce a shadowgraph image using either single wavelength grey scale or preferably multispectral multiple wavelength false color imaging techniques. The apparatus and method also advantageously can be used in conjunction with computer image reconstruction similar to that employed in computerized axial tomography of the type used in X-ray diagnostic techniques. In one of its more advantageous aspects, the apparatus and method are used to differentiate between benign and malignant human breast tumors.

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First Claim