[Xeroradiographic and thermographic contributions to the diagnosis and prognosis of operable breast cancer].

The methods of paraclinical investigation of breast cancer, advantageously assisted by cytology, do not compete with the biopsy. A clinico-pathologic examination is necessary, prior to any treatment, to ascertain the presence of a cancer and to determine its degree of malignancy. These methods mainly aim at:--discovering the tumor as early as possible,--determining its various morphologic and dynamic aspects, especially its growth rate,--guiding the biopsy and combining this surgical act with coherent therapeutic tactics. The xeroradiographic plate has all the qualities of an excellent detecting device, but in order to replace the mammography on film in daily practice the technical aspects need to be improved. Thermography gives an original and valuable point of view concerning breast tumors. We feel it is one of the most reliable prognostic elements.