Application of Artificial Intelligence in Ophthalmology
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Application of Artificial Intelligence in Ophthalmology
IRAS ID
261121
Contact name
Mervyn G. Thomas
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of Leicester
Duration of Study in the UK
3 years, 0 months, 1 days
Research summary
The advances in computing power and explosion of “big data” has propelled the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in medicine as an effective way to manage and analyse big data. AI is particularly effective in image recognition and has already been in use in specialities such as radiology, pathology and dermatology. Recently, AI has been granted FDA approval for use in ophthalmology (eye specialities) and in particular, age related diseases such as diabetic retinopathy and age-related macular degeneration. However, AI is yet to be fully utilised within congenital and neurological conditions related to the eyes. In Leicester, we have launched a number of eye scanning studies in children and adults, using a device called optical coherence tomography (OCT). This OCT device enables us to scan the back of the eye with a particular focus on two areas of interest, the fovea and the optic nerve. We have been successful in collating a large amount of data, which has enabled us to detect normal and abnormal structuring of the fovea.
In addition to the OCT scan, we can also use other imaging techniques to record changes in the back of the eye and to detect abnormal eye movements. One congenital and neurological form of abnormal eye movement is called nystagmus. This is an involuntary to-and-fro movement of the eyes and can have various waveforms, which we can record with specialist imaging equipment. As with all equipment, this requires special examiners to differential diagnose scans and recordings that are normal and abnormal. Our aim is train an AI system to accurately perform these tasks, differentiating between normal and abnormal and potentially between various conditions which can cause changes at the back of the eye and abnormal eye movements.
REC name
East Midlands - Leicester Central Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
20/EM/0040
Date of REC Opinion
3 Sep 2020
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion