Method and system for detecting electrophysiological changes in the epithelial tissue and cancer tissue and precancerous tissue

摘要

A method and system for determining a condition of a selected region of epithelial and stromal tissue, for example in the human breast. A plurality of electrodes are used to measure surface and transepithelial electropotential of breast tissue as well as surface electropotential and impedance at one or more locations and at several defined frequencies, particularly very low frequencies. An agent may be introduced into the region of tissue to enhance electrophysiological characteristics. Measurements made at ambient and varying suction and/or positive pressure applied to the epithelial tissue and/or positive pressure conditions applied to the breast are also used as a diagnostic tool. Tissue condition is determined based on the electropotential and impedance profile at different depths of the epithelium, stroma, tissue, or organ, together with an estimate of the functional changes in the epithelium due to altered ion transport and electrophysiological properties of the tissue. Devices for practicing the disclosed methods are also provided.