Securely detecting prostate cancer with artificial intelligence

In order to detect and assess prostate carcinomas more quickly, scientists at the University of Siegen are investigating the application of artificial intelligence in radiology.

In radiology, one of the most difficult examinations is to evaluate MRI slice images of the prostate and to assess whether a prostate carcinoma is present. This often involves multiple radiologists and a laboratory. As a result, evaluations and assessments of a single case take a long time. Researchers at the University of Siegen, together with Gemedico, a company specializing in digital solutions in the medical sector, are now investigating how artificial intelligence (AI) can support medical professionals in this task in the future as part of the PAIRADS project.

"On the one hand, the goal of PAIRADS is to investigate how AI can best be integrated into the working practice of radiologists," says Prof. Dr. Volkmar Pipek, head of the "Computer Supported Collaborative Work (CSCW) and Social Media“ professorship at the University of Siegen. "In addition, we want to find out which features of a prostate carcinoma can best be detected, visualized and evaluated with the help of algorithms. In this context, we are exploring the area of human-centered AI, i.e., needs and expectations that real users have of artificial intelligence so that they can be supported.”

The researchers are collaborating with various radiologists in Germany. "The reporting of a prostate carcinoma is considered quite complex, so two radiologists are often involved. Certain schemata are often used, in this case the PI-RADS standard, which radiologists follow," says Project Manager Sheree Saßmannshausen. "Exactly how they go about is something we're going to look at in the field research, collecting and analyzing real-world data."

The research project started in August 2021, has a duration of just under two and a half years and is largely funded by the German Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF). A total of around 580,000 euros in funding is available to the researchers. In contrast to research projects that have already been carried out, the focus of PAIRADS lies in the best possible integration of the assistance systems into everyday radiological practice. During registration, data is entered by the user that permits an evaluation, mainly regarding fraud risks. The consideration of current technical standards and the structured approach also ensure the quality and practicality of the research work.

Contact:
Univ.-Prof. Dr. Volkmar Pipek
Phone: 0271 740-4068
E-mail: volkmar.pipek@uni-siegen.de