Extract
In light of recent deep learning findings, the question arises whether estimations of radiomic markers may soon be dispensable. In this editorial I would, therefore, like to compare two computed tomography (CT) lung studies to discuss this question: a deep learning (DL) cancer screening analysis, recently published in Nature Medicine, and a sparse data radiomic marker sarcoidosis investigation, published in this issue of the European Respiratory Journal. In this context, I would like to touch on three particular aspects: When are radiomic image markers still helpful? What effect does the volume of available data have on the statistical method of choice? How dogmatic should statistical analysis be in clinical applications?
Abstract
In big data screening investigations, deep learning concepts should be directly applied to images. In sparse data investigations radiomic image feature estimations play a key role. http://bit.ly/2KnjlcZ
Acknowledgement
I would like to thank Barbara Ahlemeyer (Justus-Liebig University, Institute for Anatomy and Cell Biology, Giessen, Germany) for helpful discussions.
Footnotes
Conflict of interest: M. Obert has nothing to disclose.
- Received June 17, 2019.
- Accepted August 3, 2019.
- Copyright ©ERS 2019