THz radiation distribution for the identification of infiltrating ductal carcinoma in human breast model: a computational study

Abstract

With numerous biomedical applications of terahertz (THz) imaging, spectroscopy, and sensing, the THz regime of the spectrum is quickly emerging as an important area of research with the potential to usher in a new era in the healthcare industry. In the medical field, THz radiation has been explored to diagnose and monitor several ailments, including foot diabetes, skin dryness, wounds, and burns. Compared to X-rays, THz waves' phase sensitivity to bodily fluid levels and water results in superior contrast and stronger absorption. This feature makes THz potentially useful for the diagnosis of various malignant tumor forms because cancerous tumors have higher water molecule contents than healthy tissues. The current study presents a computational analysis of a CW-THz point-by-point scanning technique for breast cancer detection. COMSOL multiphysics platform was utilized to create a multilayer three-dimensional breast model containing an irregular-shaped infiltrating ductal carcinoma in the glandular layer. The propagation of the THz radiation in the constructed breast model was simulated based on the radio frequency module and electromagnetic waves in the frequency domain interface. Furthermore, different volumes and locations of the induced tumor were examined. The results demonstrated significant disparities in the acquired electric distribution at different tumor sizes and sites between normal and diseased breasts. The resultant electric field for healthy breast ranged from 1.1 × 10–5 to 0.61 V/m, however, the electric field ranges following tumor addition fluctuate based on its volume and location. Additionally, the position of the THz source and detector array influences the reflected THz signal.