Nusrat Binta Nizam/Dr Ashley Beecy - Week 04

6/24/24 - 6/28/24  Week 4:

On Tuesday, during our immersion weekly meeting, I attended a talk that focused on AI for Medical Imaging by Prof. Mert R Sabuncu. It was insightful and covered a range of topics highlighting the transformative potential of artificial intelligence in the medical field. It began with an overview of the current state of AI in medical imaging, emphasizing its ability to enhance diagnostic accuracy and efficiency. Prof. Mert discussed three projects of his research lab. They were based on longitudinal analysis of MRI images, organ volume quantification and cancer risk assessment from images. The talk was great and easier to follow. Real-world case studies were presented, showcasing successful implementations of AI in detecting different diseases.

This week, I had the privilege of engaging in CT and X-ray reading sessions with Dr. Alan Legasto, an excellent mentor. These sessions provided a comprehensive understanding of how CT and X-ray imaging are utilized in diagnosing and managing various conditions, including cancers, lung, and cardiac diseases. We delved into the differences between various types of CT studies. For instance, standard CT scans provide detailed cross-sectional images of the body, while high-resolution CT (HRCT) is particularly useful for assessing lung diseases like pulmonary fibrosis. Low-dose CT (LDCT) is commonly used for lung cancer screening due to its ability to detect early-stage cancers with minimal radiation exposure. In the realm of cardiac diseases, calcium scoring via CT helps quantify coronary artery calcifications, aiding in the assessment of atherosclerotic disease. We also reviewed images related to aortic graft repairs, which are important for patients with aortic aneurysms or dissections. Lung cancer screening was a significant focus, where we discussed the identification of benign and malignant nodules. Understanding the radiological characteristics of these nodules is vital for early detection and treatment planning. Small cell lung cancer, a highly aggressive form, was also covered, emphasizing the importance of early and accurate diagnosis. For abdominal cancers, CT imaging plays a significant role in identifying and staging tumors, guiding treatment decisions. We examined cases of pulmonary fibrosis, noting the characteristic patterns on HRCT that differentiate it from other lung conditions. Dr. Legasto also guided me through the evaluation of pacemaker leads using X-rays to ensure proper placement and function. The use of portable X-rays was highlighted for its convenience in bedside imaging, particularly for critically ill patients who cannot be transported to the radiology department. Overall, these sessions with Dr. Legasto and some residents were immensely educational, providing a deep dive into the practical applications of CT and X-ray imaging in diagnosing and managing a wide range of medical conditions.

The rest of the week, I focused on the dataset provided by my clinical mentor, Dr. Beecy. I conducted several experiments and received valuable feedback from her. She is directly co-operating with me, providing valuable insights and suggestions. Based on her insights, I am further exploring the data and working on developing AI-based models to enhance our research efforts.