Introduction to Microwave Imaging for Breast Cancer Detection

This book collates past and current research on Microwave imaging to detect breast cancer, one of the leading causes of death amongst women in Europe and the US and the second most common cancer in the world today. Current breast imaging modalities include X-ray, Ultrasound, Magnetic Resonance Imaging, and Positron Emission Tomography. However, each of these imaging methods suffers from one or more limitations, including poor sensitivity or specificity, high cost, patient discomfort, and exposure to potentially harmful ionising radiation. One of the most promising emerging modalities for breast cancer detection is microwave imaging. Microwave imaging has the potential to provide reliable, safe and comfortable breast exams at low cost, as a standalone technology or in conjunction with another imaging modality. Microwave breast imaging is based on a contrast in the dielectric properties of breast tissue that exists at microwave frequencies.§§The book begins by considering the anatomy and dielectric properties of the breast, contrasting historical and recent studies. Next, radar-based breast imaging algorithms are discussed, encompassing both early-stage artefact removal, and data independent and adaptive beamforming algorithms. In a similar fashion, microwave tomographic reconstruction algorithms are reviewed in the following chapter, introducing the reader to both the fundamental and more advanced algorithms. Apart from imaging, the book also reviews research efforts in extracting clinically useful information from the Radar Target Signature of breast tumours, which is used to classify tumours as either benign or malignant. Finally, the book concludes by describing the current state of the art in terms of prototype microwave breast imaging systems, with a particular emphasis on those which have progressed to the clinical evaluation stage.§§§§