Grade prediction of lesions in cerebral white matter using a convolutional neural network

What is it about?

AI image analysis using convolutional neural networks on head MRI images, combined with co-occurrence network analysis, reveals that hypertension is a major risk factor for white matter lesions (WMLs) in the brain and is associated with a higher rate of disease progression.

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Photo by Robina Weermeijer on Unsplash

Photo by Robina Weermeijer on Unsplash

Why is it important?

In Japan, the progression of a super-aging society has led to an increase in non-communicable diseases such as diabetes mellitus, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, and hyperuricemia. These conditions are closely associated with more severe and life-threatening diseases, including cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases, as well as dementia. Brain MRI images showing white matter lesions highlight the progression of ischemic damage and age-related changes in the brain. Among these, hypertension plays a critical role as a causative factor in brain damage and neural impairments.