Devices and methods of screening for neoplastic and inflammatory disease

摘要

Methods and devices are provided for evaluating the presence of disease in a patient. In particular, methods and devices are provided for screening patients for neoplastic and/or inflammatory disease. Such diseases are often indicated by the elevated level of a chemical compound associated with disease, such as nitric oxide (NO) and/or nitrogen dioxide (NO₂). Through measuring and/or estimating the chemical compound-concentration, such as by change in fluorescence, absorbance or reflectance, the methods and tools provided distinguish between patients who require further testing and/or treatment and those who do not. The methods and tools also provide information about the effectiveness of treatment, such as treatment to reduce inflammation or control of the growth of malignant tumors. These methods and devices are relatively inexpensive, easy to use, and provide other advantages.