27.02.2025

Researchers at the Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology, in collaboration with the University of Bern, have developed a 3D imaging method to analyze thyroid tumors with higher precision. Unlike conventional histopathology, this innovative technique allows pathologists to assess entire tissue samples virtually, providing a more comprehensive view of pathological changes.

Image: The image shows an industrial X-ray or CT analyzer with a clamped sample holder; copyright: Empa

Tissue samples are scanned in three dimensions using an X-ray machine and then analyzed using machine learning.

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Personalized treatment approaches

Zboray’s method, based on X-ray phase-contrast micro-computed tomography (micro-CT), makes even the smallest variations in soft tissue visible. These three-dimensional images are analyzed using machine learning, which could help pathologists make more precise diagnoses and prognoses.

Thyroid cancer affects approximately 300 million people worldwide, with tumor characteristics varying from patient to patient. Identifying measurable biomarkers is essential for early detection and treatment planning. The goal is to provide personalized therapy - avoiding unnecessary treatments for low-risk tumors while ensuring appropriate care for higher-risk patients.

Deeper tissue insights for more reliable diagnoses

A significant advantage of 3D analysis is its ability to detect pathological changes in deeper tissue layers that might be missed using conventional methods. “When encapsulated thyroid tumors grow aggressively and quickly, they often break into the surrounding healthy tissue and even invade blood vessels. Such vascular invasions are therefore often an indication of the malignancy and severity of the tumor,” says Zboray. Early and more precise diagnoses enable medical professionals to act swiftly and tailor treatment plans to individual patient needs.

Retrospective studies to improve cancer research

In collaboration with the University of Bern and Inselspital Bern, Zboray's team examined a thyroid tumor sample from a patient who had been initially diagnosed with a benign tumor in 2011. Over time, the tumor recurred in a malignant form. Conventional sectional analysis failed to detect deep-seated capsular hernias, which were later identified using 3D imaging.

This discovery has prompted a retrospective study of similar cases across Europe, focusing on patients whose initial benign diagnoses later developed into aggressive tumors.

Seamless integration into clinical practice

According to Zboray, the 3D imaging method can be easily incorporated into existing clinical workflows and serves as an ideal complement to conventional histopathological analysis. “Established procedures are firmly anchored in everyday medical practice. Our technology is not intended to disrupt these processes, but to offer additional benefits,” he states. Beyond thyroid tumors, the technology shows potential for analyzing other cancer types, including prostate and lung cancer. With support from the Swiss National Science Foundation (SNSF), Zboray is now testing this technique on colorectal cancer metastases.

MEDICA-tradefair.com; Source: Empa

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