Integrating X-ray phase-contrast imaging and histology for comparative evaluation of breast tissue malignancies in virtual histology analysis

Detecting breast tissue alterations is essential for cancer diagnosis. However, inherent bidimensionality limits histological procedures’ effectiveness in identifying these changes. Our study applies a 3D virtual histology method based on X-ray phase-contrast microtomography (PhC microCT), performed at a synchrotron facility, to investigate breast tissue samples including different types of lesions, namely intraductal papilloma, micropapillary intracystic carcinoma, and invasive lobular carcinoma. One-to-one comparisons of X-ray and histological images explore the clinical potential of 3D X-ray virtual histology. Results show that PhC microCT technique provides high spatial resolution and soft tissue sensitivity, while being non-destructive, not requiring a dedicated sample processing and being compatible with conventional histology. PhC microCT can enhance the visualization of morphological characteristics such as stromal tissue, fibrovascular core, terminal duct lobular unit, stromal/epithelium interface, basement membrane, and adipocytes. Despite not reaching the (sub) cellular level, the three-dimensionality of PhC microCT images allows to depict in-depth alterations of the breast tissues, potentially revealing pathologically relevant details missed by a single histological section. Compared to serial sectioning, PhC microCT allows the virtual investigation of the sample volume along any orientation, possibly guiding the pathologist in the choice of the most suitable cutting plane. Overall, PhC microCT virtual histology holds great promise as a tool adding to conventional histology for improving efficiency, accessibility, and diagnostic accuracy of pathological evaluation.