Ask the doctor: Is thermography a good screening tool for breast cancer?
Thermography uses infrared cameras to detect temperature differences at the surface of the breast. Cancerous tissue generally has a higher temperature than normal tissue because of its richer blood supply and higher metabolic rate; scientists reasoned that infrared "hot spots" in the breast could signal the presence of cancer. However, you can also have hot spots with benign breast disease, such as mastitis.
To continue reading this article, you must log in.
Subscribe to Harvard Health Online for immediate access to health news and information from Harvard Medical School.
- Research health conditions
- Check your symptoms
- Prepare for a doctor's visit or test
- Find the best treatments and procedures for you
- Explore options for better nutrition and exercise
I'd like to receive access to Harvard Health Online for only $4.99 a month.
Sign Me UpAlready a member? Login ».
Disclaimer:
As a service to our readers, Harvard Health Publishing provides access to our library of archived content. Please note the date of last review or update on all articles.
No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.
