A Novel Non-Invasive Tool for Breast Cancer Detection - Abstract
Background: Breast Cancer (BrC) is a public health concern, with the Breast Imaging Reporting and Data System (BI-RADS) serving as the primary
screening tool. Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC) are being explored as a potential alternative for cancer detection, aiming to overcome challenges in early
screening. This study introduces an innovative, non-invasive method employing a bra as prototype BrC detection, with the goal of simplifying and improving
the screening procedure.
Materials and methods: A total of 50 women were enrolled, categorized as BI-RADS ?3 (n =16) and BI-RADS ?4 (n =34). A bra prototype (device) was
designed as a strictly non-invasive auto-collecting system for breast biofluids. Each participant wore the device under a snug fit for 8-10 hours. The collected
samples were then analyzed by Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry. The VOC data underwent statistical analysis to assess discriminative ability, with
Partial Least Squares Discriminant Analysis (PLS-DA) applied to compare the BI-RADS ?4 (BrC) and Normal (H) groups.
Results. The device was well received and high compliance among participants. Despite VOC heterogeneity being observed, the chemical classes
aldehydes, and alkenes were mostly frequent. A specific BrC-associated VOC profile as common matched the BI-RADS ?4 patients (BrC-VOC profile) harboring
nonanal, 1-Hexene, Ethylbenzene, Benzenesulfonanilide, acetic acid and decanal; while others for BI-RADS ?3 patients (healthy VOC profile) harboring
Benzene, 1,4-dichloro; Methane; ethyl ester, Cyanic acid, 2,4-Octadiyne and Octane compounds.
Conclusion. The auto-collecting non-invasive device demonstrated significative correlation with the clinical outcomes identifying a BrC-associated VOC
profile more accurately than BI-RADS ?4 imaging. This volatolomic method presents a promising, accurate, and emerging adjuvant technique to enhance
conventional screening procedures.