Mapping Bronchial Carcinoma In Situ Lung Cancer Lesions By Combined Imaging Fluorescence Bronchoscopy And Ratioing Fluorometer Probe

A two-component system of instrumentation and methods, IFB and RFP, when used in combination employing hematoporphyrin derivates, DHE, had highly satisfactory sensitivity (95%) and specificity (100%) for localizing carcinoma in situ lesions in the bronchi of individuals with early stage lung cancer, having a normal chest x-ray and detected by a positive sputum cytology test. The more detailed mapping of additional subjects may increase the specificity of RFP (Ratioing Fluorometer Probe) by itself to an adequate level. Digital computer subs traction of background antofluorescence may increase contrast to enhance the specificity of IFB (Imaging Fluorescence Bronchoscopy).