Oncologists in the United Kingdom have created a prototype sensor no larger than a "speck of dust" which can detect the presence of carcinogens. Cancer-ridden cells become affixed to the disc due to the use of special coating that binds to their unique structure in samples of supposedly healthy material when it vibrates. Once a cancerous molecule has become fastened to the surface of this miniscule device, a difference in weight is recorded via two separate modes of pulsation, signifying the presence of malignant organic elements.

The developers of this product are optimistic their technique will help doctors diagnose cancer in its earliest stages, as well monitor treatment. They believe other types of bacterial diseases can be detected once their technology is refined, eventually taking the form of a hand-held instrument which could be used to recognize the presence of bio-contaminants before a carrier enters a hospital ward or quarantined area.

Read the article. (BBC)

Cancer Facts & Figures 2005 (american cancer society)