Cancer test uses military science

One in nine British women will develop breast cancer

British scientists have used military technology to develop a new and potentially more reliable test for breast cancer.

QinetiQ's PathScore system can analyse breast tissue and assess the severity of the disease.

The technology was originally developed to detect military targets, such as camouflaged tanks.

The scientists believe the test could be help doctors to diagnose breast cancer more quickly.

At present, pathologists diagnose breast cancer by analysing tissue samples taken from patients.

The process is time consuming and is exacerbated by a worldwide shortage of these doctors.

We welcome any technology that can help pathologists Dr Michelle Barclay, Breakthrough Breast Cancer

According to the Royal College of Pathologists in the UK, around 300 out of 1,200 consultant pathologist posts in the NHS are vacant.

This new test is not intended to replace pathologists. It is designed to be used alongside expert medical opinion.

Improve diagnosis

But the scientists believe that it could dramatically improve the diagnosis of breast cancer.

"Unlike a human, it never gets tired and so can be used 24 hours a day and seven days a week," the company, which is part owned by the UK government, said in a statement.

QinetiQ has tested the system on more than 3,000 tissue samples. In each case, it correctly diagnosed the severity of breast cancer correctly.

"Correct diagnosis or grading of breast cancer is extremely important as this is what determines the type of treatment a patient will receive," the company said.

The UK charity Breakthrough Breast Cancer welcomed the test.

"We welcome any technology that can help pathologists in their role by potentially making the grading of breast cancers easier and more accurate," said spokeswoman Dr Michelle Barclay.

"The grading of a tumour can have a knock-on effect on the type of treatment a woman receives, so it is vital to get it right."