AML diagnostics in the 21st century: Use of AI

The landscape of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) diagnostics is undergoing a pivotal shift towards a transformative era, driven by the integration of artificial intelligence (AI). This review delves into the pivotal role of AI in reshaping AML diagnostics in the 21st century, highlighting advancements, challenges, and future prospects. AML, marked by the immediate need for accurate diagnosis and treatment, requires precise analysis against the complexity of various diagnostic methods such as cytomorphology, immunophenotyping, cytogenetics, and molecular testing. The introduction of AI in this field promises to address the critical need for rapid and standardized diagnostics, thereby enhancing patient care. AI technologies, including deep learning (DL) and machine learning (ML), are revolutionizing the interpretation of complex diagnostic data. With the use of AI-based models such as deep learning (DL) classifiers or automated karyotyping, promising tools do already exist. When it comes to reporting and reasoning, large language models (LLM) show their potential in efficient data processing and better clinical decision-making. This includes the use of large language models (LLMs) for generating comprehensive diagnostic reports that integrate multi-layered diagnostic information. However, there is a critical need for transparency and interpretability in AI-driven diagnostics. Explainable AI (XAI) models address this need building trust among clinicians and patients. Moreover, this review addresses the growing field of synthetic data that are becoming increasingly accessible due to advances in AI and computational technology. While synthetic data present a promising avenue for augmenting clinical research and potentially optimizing clinical trials in fields such as AML, their application requires careful ethical, regulatory, and methodological considerations. There are several limitations and challenges to consider regarding not only synthetic data but also AI models in general. This includes regulatory hurdles due to the dynamic nature of AI, as well as data privacy concerns and interoperability between different systems. In conclusion, AI has the potential to completely change how we diagnose and treat AML by offering faster, more accurate, and more comprehensive diagnostic insights. This potential is especially crucial for preserving knowledge in times of shortages of human experts. However, realizing this potential will require overcoming significant challenges and fostering collaboration between technologists and clinicians. As we move forward, the synergy between AI and human expertise will undoubtedly redefine the landscape of AML diagnostics, leading in a new era of precision medicine in hematology.