Innovative device to monitor WBC Levels during Cancer Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy, while effective against cancer, can weaken patients’ immune systems, making them susceptible to infections. Monitoring white blood cell counts is crucial, but current methods involve blood tests. Leuko has developed an at-home white blood cell monitor that uses light to assess white blood cells through the skin, without drawing blood. This technology aims to improve patient care and provide peace of mind.
Key Points :
The Challenge: Balancing Treatment and Immune Health
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- Chemotherapy targets cancer cells but can harm healthy immune cells.
- Patients with weakened immune systems are at risk of infections.
- Neutropenia (dangerously low white blood cell count) is a concern.
- Social isolation during chemotherapy exacerbates patients’ vulnerability.
Leuko’s Solution: Remote Monitoring Without Blood Tests
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- Leuko’s innovative device offers a comprehensive view of patients’ health.
- Instead of drawing blood, it uses light to scan the skin near the fingernail.
- Artificial intelligence analyzes the white blood cell levels.
- Accurate detection without any blood samples is a game-changer.
Origins and Validation: MIT Research and Clinical Success
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- MIT researchers conceived the technology in 2015.
- Prototypes were developed, and a small study validated their approach.
- Hundreds of cancer patients have benefited from Leuko’s noninvasive monitoring.
Patient Impact and Personal Perspective
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- Co-founder and CTO Ian Butterworth emphasizes outpatient care improvement.
- Patients gain peace of mind, especially when interacting with others.
- The device allows them to assess infection risk and make informed choices.
Innovative, affordable and painless process for cancer post-monitoring is still a wide gap huge opportunity where researchers can think and begin research work.