Researchers at the British Columbia Cancer Research Centre have developed a device to help determine the presence of cancerous or abnormal cells in the mouth.
It is called VELScope or Visually Enhanced Lesion Scope.
VELScope is a lightweight handheld device that produces a light capable of exciting molecules in the cells of our oral tissues. When excited, these tissues absorb this light energy resulting in a visible fluorescence that can be observed in real time. Tissues stop fluorescing when the light is removed. Normal tissues will emit a pale green light. Abnormal tissues or tumours for example, will appear dark green or black when viewed through the device’s eyepiece.
Dr. Paulette Pillersdorf, from Dentistry on 7 is proud to be the first dentist in Markham to offer VELScope – the latest leading edge technology for the early detection of oral cancer – to her patients. She will be incorporating the screening process into every new patient examination and thereafter in all hygiene recall appointments. Dr. Pillersdorf, a general dentist, already routinely examines all her patients for oral cancer, but acknowledges how changing cells in early disease stages can be impossible to detect with the naked eye. “Now we have the ability to fluoresce suspect tissues and to refer for biopsy in a more informed way,” remarks Dr. Pillersdorf. Conversely, it is a great feeling to give an “all clear” report to a patient!
For patients, the screening process is simple, requires no preparation and takes only minutes. The dental professional shines a blue light into the mouth to cause it to fluoresce. This fluorescence helps the clinician to visualize abnormal tissue which may be, or may lead to, oral cancer. Screening is suggested for patients of all ages and health status.
In test studies conducted at the British Columbia Cancer Research Centre, 50 tissue sites from 44 patients were evaluated using the VELScope. Pathologists biopsied all the sites and correctly classified the various cases of normal and abnormal tissue.
Over 30,000 people are diagnosed with oral cancer annually in the United States. With a mortality rate of over 50% at 5 years, one person every hour of every day dies of oral cancer in America. If detected early however, oral cancer is 90% survivable.
VELScope represents a significant breakthrough in the early detection of oral cancer. Early detection can lead to early treatment – the ultimate goal being the preservation of life.
For more information on VELScope or to be screened, contact Dentistry on 7 at 905.474.4474.
2600 John Street, Unit 207, Markham, ON L3R 3W3 T: 905.475.5222 F: 905.475.6369
