[Diagnosis of breast cancer by computed infrared light scan]

One hundred and eleven patients with various pathologically proved breast diseases were examined by computed infrared light scan (ILS). The results were compared with those of palpation and X-ray mammography. The correct rate in 50 cancers was 90%, significantly superior to that of X-ray (70%, P less than 0.05). The lower diagnostic rate of X-ray may have been due to higher percentage of younger patients (30-40 years of age) who had higher density in the breast in this group. The criteria of diagnosis of cancers by ILS on the video monitor were: 1. The shadow of the mass- the lower grade of gray-shade implied the possibility of malignancy, and 2. Pattern of the blood vessels around the mass-increase in number, diameter, distortion, a zigzag course or disappearance of blood vasculature suggested malignancy. ILS is considered simple, non-invasive, easy to operate and reliable in the detection of breast cancers.