3D scans improve the accuracy of cancer diagnosis
A new 3D computed tomography scanner utilising AI is giving pathologists a more accurate way to examine thyroid tumours. Unlike traditional methods that involve cutting tissue into thin slices for two-dimensional analysis, this new technique provides a comprehensive three-dimensional view on screen.
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The new X-ray method for analysing thyroid tumours, known as X-ray phase-contrast micro-computed tomography (micro-CT), makes it possible to see even the smallest differences in soft tissue. The three-dimensional images are analysed using artificial intelligence and machine learning. This technique enables pathologists to identify clinically relevant tissue characteristics in thyroid tumours. The aim is to enable more personalised cancer treatment to avoid over-treatment of low-risk tumours, while providing targeted treatment for patients with aggressive tumours.
The special thing about this method is that it can analyse complete biopsy blocks of a tumour in three dimensions in a short time without changing or destroying the tissue. This means that the sample can still be used for further molecular biological examinations.
Understanding the individual tumour
Every year, more than half a million people worldwide are diagnosed with thyroid cancer. Because tumour characteristics vary from person to person, biomarkers play a crucial role in diagnosis and treatment planning. These biochemical and molecular characteristics help to detect cancer at an early stage and provide information about a tumour's growth and response to treatment.
Capturing deeper-lying characteristics
Another advantage of the new 3D tissue analysis is its ability to detect deeper-lying tumour features that are often missed by conventional methods. According to the researchers, an aggressive thyroid tumour often invades surrounding healthy tissue or even blood vessels. Such vascular invasion is often an indication of malignancy and the severity of the tumour. An early and more precise diagnosis can help doctors to act faster and in a more targeted way. In collaboration with the University of Bern and the Inselspital in Bern, Zboray's team analysed a thyroid tumour sample from a patient who had been treated for a harmless tumour in 2011. Years later, the tumour returned in a malignant form. Using the new 3D tissue analysis, the researchers discovered invasions deep within the tissue that had been missed by conventional section analysis.
Other types of cancer in the pipeline
A retrospective study is now underway, looking at samples from patients across Europe who were initially diagnosed with harmless findings but went on to develop serious tumours. Based on these initial promising results, it should become possible to study other types of tumours under the 3D microscope. The next step will be to test the three-dimensional histology technique in colorectal cancer metastases.