article · IEEE Access
A technique has been developed for the early detection of brain cancer using an antenna array paired with human head models. The method evaluates variations in reflection coefficients between healthy head models and those containing a tumour. A reconfigurable four-element linear array of microstrip patches was designed to operate at the 2.4 GHz frequency band using both circularly polarised and linearly polarised configurations. Evaluations were conducted across a specific anthropomorphic mannequin model and a four-layer three-dimensional head model comprising skin, fat, skull, and brain. Simulations showed that a four-element circularly polarised array produced an elevenfold increase in reflection coefficient in the presence of a tumour, detecting tumours as small as 2.5 millimetres. The antenna also adhered to specific absorption rate safety limits, and fabricated prototypes matched simulated electrical performance.
Detecting brain tumours at very early stages is crucial for improving patient outcomes. Using microwave reflection measurements offers a non-invasive approach that can identify small tumours without exceeding safe radiation exposure levels. By demonstrating that small tumour masses cause significant and measurable electromagnetic changes, this method presents an alternative sensing mechanism for early diagnostic screening.
This work is at an early experimental stage, having demonstrated simulation models and prototype hardware validation in a laboratory setting. If progressed, the technology could enable portable, non-invasive microwave diagnostic devices for clinical oncology teams or screening centres. Further development would require extensive testing on biological tissue models, clinical trials on patients, and integration into a practical diagnostic screening unit.
AI-generated from the published abstract. Always read the original work before citing.
In this paper a technique for the early detection of brain cancer was proposed. The technique depends upon the use of an antenna and a model for the human head. The reflection coefficient (S11) was found for two cases: with and without tumor in the head model. The large increase of S11 due to the presence of the tumor provides a good indication for tumor detection. It also gives an idea about the size of the tumor. The antenna used was a reconfigurable four-element linear array of squared microstrip patches. Two arrays were designed one circularly polarized, the other linearly polarized. The antenna operates at Industrial Scientific and Medical (ISM) frequency 2.4 GHz. It was designed on FR-4 (lossy) substrate of relative permittivity 4.3 and thickness of 1.6 mm. To feed the array, a corporate feeding network was designed. The reconfigurability of the array was achieved using three single pole double throw (SPDT) switches. Two models of the human head were used; a specific anthropomorphic mannequin (SAM) model, and a 3-D head model consisting of four different head layers: skin, fat, skull and brain. The simulation calculates the reflection coefficient (S11) with and without tumor for circularly polarized (CP) and linearly polarized (LP) linear array. Calculations were taken for four sizes of the array. The best results were obtained with the four-element circularly polarized array. An increase in S11 of 1188% was obtained.Tumors as small as 5 millimeters (four-layer model) and 2.5 mm (SAM model) can be detected. Specific absorption rate (SAR) was calculated and found to be within the safe limit. A circularly polarized four-element linear antenna array was fabricated. The measured S11 and radiation pattern are in excellent agreement with simulated ones.
This page summarises published work. The authoritative version sits with the publisher.
DOI: 10.1109/access.2021.3115707
Is something wrong with this record? Report it or request removal.
Discussion
Have you built on this work, tried to replicate it, or seen it applied in practice? Share what you know. Verified researchers and MARATTO™ domain experts can open a discussion, and any member can reply. Contributions are reviewed before they appear.
No discussion yet. Open the first thread.
New to MARATTO™? Create a free account.
