Artificial Intelligence Algorithms in Diabetic Retinopathy Screening

In this review, we focus on artificial intelligence (AI) algorithms for diabetic retinopathy (DR) screening and risk stratification and factors to consider when implementing AI algorithms in the clinic.

AI algorithms have been adopted, and have received regulatory approval, for automated detection of referable DR with clinically acceptable diagnostic performance. While these metrics are an important first step, performance metrics that go beyond measures of technical accuracy are needed to fully evaluate the impact of AI algorithm on patient outcomes. Recent advances in AI present an exciting opportunity to improve patient care. Using DR as an example, we have reviewed factors to consider in the implementation of AI algorithms in real-world clinical practice. These include real-world evaluation of safety, efficacy, and equity (bias); impact on patient outcomes; ethical, logistical, and regulatory factors.