Variable size computer-aided detection prompts and mammography film reader decisions
2008

Impact of Computer-Aided Detection Prompts on Mammography Decisions

Sample size: 1176 publication 10 minutes Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Fiona J Gilbert, Susan M Astley, Caroline RM Boggis, Magnus A McGee, Pamela M Griffiths, Stephen W Duffy, Olorunsola F Agbaje, Maureen GC Gillan, Mary Wilson, Anil K Jain, Nicolas Barr, Ursula M Beetles, Miriam A Griffiths, Jill Johnson, Rita M Roberts, Heather E Deans, Karen A Duncan, Geeta Iyengar

Primary Institution: University of Aberdeen

Hypothesis

The study investigates how the presence and size of computer-aided detection (CAD) prompts affect reader behavior in breast screening mammograms.

Conclusion

Mammograms with CAD prompts, especially larger ones, were more likely to be recalled for further assessment.

Supporting Evidence

  • 64% of all cases contained at least one CAD prompt.
  • Larger prompts were more likely to be recalled for cancer cases.
  • 58% of cancer cases prompted at any location were marked for recall.
  • 82% of cancer cases with prompts in the region of interest were recalled.
  • Significant associations were observed with prompting and breast density for cancer cases.

Takeaway

When doctors look at breast X-rays, prompts from a computer can help them notice more problems, especially if the prompts are bigger.

Methodology

The study analyzed mammograms from women attending routine screenings, comparing reader decisions with and without CAD prompts.

Potential Biases

Reader variability and the influence of study participation on decision-making may introduce bias.

Limitations

The study's retrospective design limits the ability to separate the effects of prompt size from the appearance of cancer on mammograms.

Participant Demographics

Women aged 50 years or older attending routine mammography.

Statistical Information

P-Value

p<0.001

Statistical Significance

p<0.001

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1186/bcr2137

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