U-net convolutional neural network applied to progressive fibrotic interstitial lung disease: Is progression at CT scan associated with a clinical outcome?

Background: Computational advances in artificial intelligence have led to the recent emergence of U-Net convolutional neural networks (CNNs) applied to medical imaging. Our objectives were to assess the progression of fibrotic interstitial lung disease (ILD) using routine CT scans processed by a U-Net CNN developed by our research team, and to identify a progression threshold indicative of poor prognosis.

Methods: CT scans and clinical history of 32 patients with idiopathic fibrotic ILDs were retrospectively reviewed.