Thermographic “edge sign” in breast carcinoma

Thermographic patterns of the breast, both qualitatively and quantitatively, lack specificity in differentiating malignant from benign disease. The recognition of an additional parameter, described herein as the “edge sign,” is considered important for it is the thermographic representation of skin retraction. In some instances, a loss of the symmetrical smooth contour of the normal breast resulting in a localized segment of flattening can be appreciated more readily on the thermogram than by visual observation during a physical examination. Thermography as a preliminary screening procedure serves to identify women who are at high risk for breast cancer, and the combination of an abnormal thermal pattern and the “edge sign” emphasizes the need for additional investigation.