Mammovision breast diagnostics in Munich

Mammovision is a method of infrared breast diagnostics, also known as thermography or infrared radiography. Every body gives off heat as infrared radiation. A special camera makes this radiation visible and shows the temperature distribution on the skin over the breast. The examination is passive: the device emits no rays, it only measures the heat your body gives off anyway. The idea behind it: blood flow and metabolism in the tissue influence skin temperature. Unusual heat patterns can be a reason to look more closely. Thermography does not, however, show structures inside the breast the way an ultrasound or X-ray image does. We therefore see Mammovision as a complement, not a replacement.

Mammography is an X-ray examination of the breast. It is a central, scientifically well-studied method of breast cancer screening. In Germany, women in a defined age range are invited regularly to mammography screening. Mammovision is not among the methods of early detection recommended in the guidelines. Where a mammogram is recommended – in screening, for a suspicious lump or in aftercare – Mammovision does not replace it. Some women would like to avoid X-rays altogether. We take this wish seriously and talk openly about the benefits and limits of every examination. Together we find a form of preventive care that suits you and is medically responsible.

The breast changes with the cycle, during the menopause and under the influence of hormones. Its blood flow also fluctuates. This can show up in the thermal image. Prof. Schulte-Uebbing has studied and published on this connection: “Infrared breast diagnostics Mammovision: influence of endocrinological factors on the measurement” (EHK, 2010). For you this means: we ask about your cycle, about hormone therapy or hormonal contraception and about your stage of life. We take these factors into account in the evaluation. This makes it easier to interpret the images and compare them over time. Our holistic perspective shows here too: hormones, breast health and preventive care belong together.

Prof. Schulte-Uebbing has worked scientifically on infrared breast diagnostics for many years. Together with R. Berz, he wrote the chapter “Mammovision (Infrared Breast Thermography) compared to X-Ray Mammography and Ultrasonography: 114 Cases Evaluated” in the specialist book “Medical Infrared Imaging, Principles and Practices” (CRC Press, 2013). Further contributions are “Mammography and integrative breast thermo-radiography” (Baden-Baden Medical Congress, 2011) and “Infrared radiography as an integrative method in breast cancer prevention and aftercare” (Medical Week Baden-Baden, 2012). The titles alone show the attitude: Mammovision is an integrative, that is complementary, method. It stands alongside mammography, not in its place.

An honest view matters. A normal thermal image does not mean that breast cancer can definitely be ruled out. Conversely, an abnormal pattern can have harmless causes, such as inflammation or hormonal influences. Thermography can neither prove nor exclude a tumour. That is why Mammovision is never used on its own at our practice. We combine it with palpation, ultrasound and elastography. If needed, we recommend a mammogram, an MRI or a biopsy. This further clarification takes place with radiologists or in a breast centre. We explain every step to you and support you until there is clarity.