Study of the IR Spectra of the Saliva of Cancer Patients

Feasibility has been demonstrated in principle for the diagnosis of lung and breast cancer by subjecting saliva to Fourier transform IR spectroscopy. Statistically significant differences in the saliva of lung cancer patients are seen at 1070–1240 cm–1, while significant differences are seen throughout the entire range for breast cancer patients. The I1398/1454 and I1240/1310 ratios were determined and found to be statistically reliable for detecting cancer pathology. Correlations were found for the intensities of the absorption bands in these IR spectra with nonspecific biochemical saliva parameters, which generally characterize greater intoxication as well as suppression of the systems for antioxidant protection and the immune response. A promising research trend involves the use of the IR spectroscopy of saliva for monitoring treatment and cancer recurrence.