| abstract |
A cancer detection patch is used for aid in early detection of breast cancer by a method which involves scanning mirror image quadrants of the breast to determine the temperature thereof. The patch comprises a flexible, heat-conductive web; an array of spaced-apart temperature indicators comprising a dye, or a pigment, and a temperature-sensitive substance having a relatively precise melting point approximately 0.5 DEG F. different from the melting point of the temperature-sensitive substance in the adjacent indicator, wherein each of said indicators displays a change in color upon melting of the temperature-sensitive substance therein; a transparent layer overlying said heat-conductive web and sealed thereto; a backing web made of a flexible, compressible material secured to the other side of the heat-conductive web and a peelable layer adhesively secured to said backing web. Mirror image quadrants of the breast are scanned by placing a patch in each of the breast-receiving cups of the brassiere, in conformable, contiguous contact with the breast skin, removing both patches after several minutes and comparing the temperature in mirror image quadrants of the breast by visual observation of the temperature indicators in each quadrant patch. |