Algorithm able to accurately see differences between cancerous lung tumors

Algorithm able to accurately see differences between cancerous lung tumors
Informational artwork that summarizes the background as well as the study design. Credit: Philipp Jurmeister

A team of researchers affiliated with a large number of institutions in Germany has tested several machine-learning algorithms to see how well they can identify the differences between lung tumors associated with head and neck cancers. In their paper published in the journal Science Translational Medicine, the group describes the algorithms and how well they worked when tested.

As the researchers note, patients who develop head and neck are at risk of also developing secondary . But sometimes, such patients also develop primary types of lung cancer tumors that are not related to their head or . It is important that doctors treating such patients be able to differentiate the tumor types, because each requires different treatment. Also, the researchers note that one type of cancer in particular, called head and neck squamous cell carcinoma, is considered to be incurable once it spreads to other parts of the body, such as the lungs. But another type of cancer, called lung squamous cell carcinoma can often be cured with surgery. Thus, it is critical that doctors identify them as quickly and accurately as possible. Unfortunately, at this time, there is no technique to differentiate the tumor types. In this new effort, the researchers tested three -based machine learning algorithms to see how well they could do the job.

Once the algorithms were ready for use, the team taught them to differentiate between tumor types by giving them biochemical sample data from 1,071 patients who had one or the other of the cancer types, and also samples from people with healthy lungs. The team reports that the best was 96.4 percent accurate in distinguishing the tumor types. They also report that in another test involving patients with a history of head and neck , the best algorithm proved to be approximately 98 percent accurate.

Interview with a short summary of the study design and the most important results. Credit: Christoph Weber

The researchers suggest their results are promising, but note that more work is required to make sure the algorithm works in a real-world environment. They also want to find out if it will work with tumors in other parts of the body.

More information: Philipp Jurmeister et al. Machine learning analysis of DNA methylation profiles distinguishes primary lung squamous cell carcinomas from head and neck metastases, Science Translational Medicine (2019). DOI: 10.1126/scitranslmed.aaw8513

Press release

Journal information: Science Translational Medicine

© 2019 Science X Network

Citation: Algorithm able to accurately see differences between cancerous lung tumors (2019, September 12) retrieved 19 March 2024 from https://medicalxpress.com/news/2019-09-algorithm-accurately-differences-cancerous-lung.html
This document is subject to copyright. Apart from any fair dealing for the purpose of private study or research, no part may be reproduced without the written permission. The content is provided for information purposes only.

Explore further

Preclinical research suggests anti-cancer effect of keto diet

66 shares

Feedback to editors