Authors:
Homero Schiabel
;
Fernanda J. F. Cardoso
and
Joyce M. Palotti
Affiliation:
São Carlos School of Engineering, University of São Paulo, Dept. of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Av. Trabalhador Sao-Carlense 400, 13566-590, Sao Carlos (SP), Brazil
Keyword(s):
CADx Scheme, Digital Mammography, Image Perception and Analysis.
Abstract:
The study main purpose is to address the effectiveness of a computer-aided diagnosis (CADx) scheme developed to assist radiologists in evaluating nodules in digital mammography images. Unlike traditional CADe systems, which focus primarily on detection, this scheme offers interpretative support, providing additional diagnostic insights for more accurate decisions. This work presents a custom evaluation software designed to facilitate the testing of the CADx scheme influence on radiologists´opinion by allowing them to assess mammograms independently, register their initial opinions, review the CADx output, and log their final decisions. Through this software the study involved radiologists analysing mammograms before and after reviewing the CADx-generated data. The results showed a scheme positive influence on diagnostic accuracy. Radiologists who used the CADx data exhibited in average improved sensitivity and specificity rates, with an overall reduction in error rates, for the image
s set under investigation. Although the scheme is still a research prototype, it demonstrates strong potential for broader application in clinical practice, offering efficiency and cost-effectiveness, especially for screening operations. The procedure described in this work indicates that, despite the need for some fine-tuning, particularly in minimizing false positives, our CADx system shows promise as a supplemental diagnostic tool that could enhance radiologistśperformance.
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