P01.03 VOC pattern recognition of lung cancer: a comparative evaluation of different dog- and eNose-based strategies using different sampling materials

Abstract

BackgroundIt has been reported that canine scent tests offer the possibility to screen for cancer. Assuming that breath samples can be collected with carrier materials, we tested the practicability of different carrier materials to be presented to dogs, and validated and compared results with an eNose. Moreover, we hypothesised that cancer detection ability of dogs differs according to their working experience.Materials and MethodsIn a methodological approach two dog teams participated, one using experienced working dogs and the other ordinary household dogs to find discover which dogs were better qualified and the best training method. To find best carrier material for breath sampling we compared charcoal containing glass tubes with fleece masks. In a second validating part, experienced working dogs were trained with improved training strategies. For breath sampling two different, previously successfully tested fleece-based carrier materials were used: one was used with the dog team and both materials were compared with eNose.ResultsIn the first part of the study it was shown overall that experienced working dogs performed better to family dogs and the dogs achieved a sensitivity of 45–59% and a specificity of 45–69%. Charcoal based breath sample carrier materials did not qualify for detection of VOC by dogs. In the second part of the study, the dogs achieved a specificity of 83% and a sensitivity of 56%, but with considerable differences between individual dogs. The eNose provided a specificity of 97% for both fleece based carrier materials and a sensitivity of 89% for fleece filled glass tubes and 100% for earloop masks. Measurements of breath samples collected directly in respiratory bags as reference measurements achieved a sensitivity and specificity of 100%.ConclusionsOur data confirmed that diagnostic accuracy of dogs depended on the type of dog training and on the carrier materials. A comparison of breath samples analysis with an eNose achieved better results for both, sensitivity and specificity, than for dogs. The use of fleece masks or fleeces in glass tubes as a sampling material can be recommended as successful VOC carriers, encouraging their use for clinical screenings.Disclosure InformationW. Biehl: None. H. Schmetzer: None. R. Koczulla: None. A. Hattesohl: None. R. Jörres: None. T. Duell: None. U. Althöhn: None.