Low-cost quantitative palpation device for breast lesion tracking and telehealth

Evaluation of tissues by palpation has been a regular part of physical examination for generations yet it relies on the experience and judgment of a clinician to derive clinical meaning from the sense of touch. Palpation of breast tissues is universally considered a key component in early detection and improving breast cancer outcomes, especially in low- and middle-income countries. We describe a diagnostic device based on an optical tonometer that uses an optical signal and a highly deformable elastomer to quantify the differential mechanical stiffness of interrogated tissues. Preliminary analyses of video and still images from palpation, both in-vivo and with synthetic analog tissues, with the system are described. This system offers an economical alternative to expensive imaging with the ability to be deployed on a mobile phone platform.