Applications of artificial intelligence in prostate cancer imaging

The purpose of this review was to identify the most recent lines of research focusing on the application of artificial intelligence (AI) in the diagnosis and staging of prostate cancer (PCa) with imaging.

The majority of studies focused on the improvement in the interpretation of bi-parametric and multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging, and in the planning of image guided biopsy. These initial studies showed that AI methods based on convolutional neural networks could achieve a diagnostic performance close to that of radiologists. In addition, these methods could improve segmentation and reduce inter-reader variability. Methods based on both clinical and imaging findings could help in the identification of high-grade PCa and more aggressive disease, thus guiding treatment decisions. Though these initial results are promising, only few studies addressed the repeatability and reproducibility of the investigated AI tools. Further, large-scale validation studies are missing and no diagnostic phase III or higher studies proving improved outcomes regarding clinical decision making have been conducted.

AI techniques have the potential to significantly improve and simplify diagnosis, risk stratification and staging of PCa. Larger studies with a focus on quality standards are needed to allow a widespread introduction of AI in clinical practice.