Radiologists have developed a computer based model that aids them in discriminating between benign and malignant breast lesions, according to a study performed at the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine. The model, which was published in the American Journal of Roentgenology, was developed by a multidisciplinary group, including radiologists and industrial engineers, led by Elizabeth S. Burnside, MD, Oguzhan Alagoz, PhD, and Jagpreet Chhatwal, PhD.
"The computer based model was created based upon findings of 48,744 mammograms in a breast imaging report database to help the radiologist calculate breast cancer risk based on abnormality descriptors like mass shape; mass margins; mass density; mass size; calcification shape and distribution," said Chhatwal, lead author of the study. "Had the radiologists combined their assessments with the computer model they could have detected 41 more cancers as compared to their routine practice. The model found that the use of hormones and a family history of breast cancer did not contribute significant predictive ability in this context," he said.
“One of the important roles of a radiologist is to interpret observations made on mammograms and predict the likelihood of breast cancer. However, assessing the influence of each observation in the context of an increasing number of complex risk factors is difficult. In this study, we developed a computer model that is designed to aid a radiologist in breast cancer risk prediction to improve accuracy and reduce variability,” said Burnside.
“Our model has the potential to avoid delay in breast cancer diagnosis and reduce the number of unnecessary biopsies, which would benefit many patients. An accurate risk prediction may also encourage patients to get more actively involved in the decision-making process surrounding their breast health," she said.
“Though much work remains to be done to validate our system for clinical care, it represents a promising direction that has the potential to substantially improve breast cancer diagnosis,” said Burnside.
SOURCES:
American Journal of Roentgenology, April 2009
American Roentgen Ray Society (http://www.arrs.org)
