Utilizing ChatGPT for Curriculum Learning in Developing a Clinical Grade Pneumothorax Detection Model: A Multisite Validation Study

Background: Pneumothorax detection is often challenging, particularly when radiographic features are subtle. This study introduces a deep learning model that integrates curriculum learning and ChatGPT to enhance the detection of pneumothorax in chest X-rays. Methods: The model training began with large, easily detectable pneumothoraces, gradually incorporating smaller, more complex cases to prevent performance plateauing. The training dataset comprised 6445 anonymized radiographs, validated across multiple sites, and further tested for generalizability in diverse clinical subgroups. Performance metrics were analyzed using descriptive statistics. Results: The model achieved a sensitivity of 0.97 and a specificity of 0.97, with an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.98, demonstrating a performance comparable to that of many FDA-approved devices. Conclusions: This study suggests that a structured approach to training deep learning models, through curriculum learning and enhanced data extraction via natural language processing, can facilitate and improve the training of AI models for pneumothorax detection.