Developing advanced imaging technology for breast diagnosis

High-speed panoramic 3D photoacoustic computed tomography of the breast

['FUNDING_OTHER'] · CALIFORNIA INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY · NIH-10891670

This study is testing a new, faster imaging technique that uses light and sound to help doctors get clearer pictures of breast lumps, making it easier to tell if they are harmless or not, and it’s designed for patients who have had unusual results from their regular mammograms.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_OTHER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorCALIFORNIA INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (PASADENA, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10891670 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on creating two high-speed 3D photoacoustic computed tomography (PACT) systems designed to improve the diagnosis of breast lesions, including benign, atypical, and malignant types. By utilizing a combination of optical and ultrasound technologies, the approach aims to provide clearer images without the use of ionizing radiation, thereby reducing the need for unnecessary follow-up imaging and biopsies. Patients who undergo routine mammography and receive abnormal findings may benefit from this innovative imaging technique, which seeks to minimize the stress and side effects associated with traditional diagnostic methods.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are women who have received abnormal results from routine mammograms and may require further diagnostic imaging.

Not a fit: Patients who have already been diagnosed with breast cancer or those who do not undergo routine mammography may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly reduce the number of unnecessary breast biopsies and the associated physical and emotional stress for patients.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using photoacoustic imaging techniques for various applications, indicating potential success for this novel approach in breast imaging.

Where this research is happening

PASADENA, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.