Abstract: A cancer detection patch is used for aid in early detection of breast cancer by a method which involves scanning mirror image quadrants of the breast to determine the temperature thereof. The patch comprises a flexible, heat-conductive web; an array of spaced-apart temperature indicators comprising a dye, or a pigment, and a temperature-sensitive substance having a relatively precise melting point approximately 0.5.degree. F. different from the melting point of the temperature-sensitive substance in the adjacent indicator, wherein each of said indicators displays a change in color upon melting of the temperature-sensitive substance therein; a transparent layer overlying said heat-conductive web and sealed thereto; a backing web made of a flexible, compressible material secured to the other side of the heat-conductive web and a peelable layer adhesively secured to said backing web.

Abstract: A cancer detection patch is used for aid in early detection of breast cancer by a method which involves scanning mirror image quadrants of the breast to determine the temperature thereof. The patch comprises a flexible, heat-conductive web; an array of spaced-apart temperature indicators comprising a dye, or a pigment, and a temperature-sensitive substance having a relatively precise melting point approximately 0.5.degree. F. different from the melting point of the temperature-sensitive substance in the adjacent indicator, wherein each of said indicators displays a change in color upon melting of the temperature-sensitive substance therein; a transparent layer overlying said heat-conductive web and sealed thereto; a backing web made of a flexible, compressible material secured to the other side of the heat-conductive web and a peelable layer adhesively secured to said backing web.

Abstract: A device is provided for aid in early detection of breast cancer. The device comprises a flexible, heat-conductive web, preferably in the form of a disc-shaped patch having an adhesive layer on one side thereof and a peelable layer removably secured thereto by said adhesive layer. On the other side thereof, the device comprises an array of spaced-apart indicators, each of said indicators comprising a dye or a pigment and a temperature sensitive substance (crystalline organic chemical) which melts at a relatively precise temperature which is approximately 0.5.degree. F. different from the adjacent indicator. As many indicators are used as are necesary to cover the desired temperature range. The device is incorporated into the breast-receiving cups of a brassiere and mirror image quadrants of the two breasts are scanned and the device is visually examined to determine the number of indicators which have displayed a change in color, thus apprising the person of the existence of abnormality in the mammary tissue.