Raman spectroscopy to distinguish progression stages in breast cancer

Abstract

10619 Background: The concept of early breast cancer detection has evolved to mean the discovery of a premalignant lesion or an early stage invasive lesion prior to metastasis. Therefore, methods must be developed to identify the actual primogenitors of cancer, those lesions which with certainty will progress to cancer. Currently, two technologies are employed for routine imaging of the breast: mammography and ultrasonography. Neither of these techniques can unequivocally distinguish between benign and malignant tissue limiting them to detection but not diagnosis. We hypothesize that differences in Raman spectra will enable the accurate discrimination of breast lesions one from one another and from normal breast epithelia. Therefore, preliminary studies were performed to investigate the potential of Raman spectroscopy. Methods: Cyropreserved breast tissue was selected, sectioned (10 μM) and stained with Hematoxylin and Eosin to verify the histologic diagnosis and to guide the acquisition of Raman spectra from a consecutive section (30 μM). This “analysis” section is mounted on Permanox (polyolefin; Nunc, Rochester, NY) over an area of the slide perforated with small holes (dia. 1mm) to provide the laser with direct access to the tissue without background Raman scattering from the polyolefin. Using a Raman microscope spectra were obtained from multiple areas of five breast tumors to address the reproducibility of spectral similarities across different tumors, to identify spectral differences between malignant and benign tissue, to identify spectral differences between invasive and ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) and to optimize the integration time. Results: In general, the spectral profiles for each tissue type are conserved with distinct differences in the predominance and peak widths of specific vibrations. Even in the absence of complex algorithms, malignant vs. benign tissue identification is possible. An analysis of the ability to reliably distinguish between invasive ductal carcinoma and DCIS will have to await additional spectra. A sound vibrational fingerprint of the tissue, consistent with that of the high signal/noise scan at 10 minutes, can be obtained within 30 seconds. Conclusions: Raman spectroscopy with short collection times shows promise and warrants further investigation. No significant financial relationships to disclose.

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