title: A computational model of reasoning from the clinical literature.
abstract: This paper explores the premise that a formalized representation of empirical studies can play a central role in computer-based decision support. The specific motivations underlying this research include the following propositions: Reasoning from experimental evidence contained in the clinical literature is central to the decisions physicians make in patient care. A computational model, based upon a declarative representation for published reports of clinical studies, can drive a computer program that selectively tailors knowledge of the clinical literature as it is applied to a particular case. The development of such a computational model is an important first step toward filling a void in computer-based decision support systems. Furthermore, the model may help us better understand the general principles of reasoning from experimental evidence both in medicine and other domains. Roundsman is a developmental computer system which draws upon structured representations of the clinical literature in order to critique plans for the management of primary breast cancer. Roundsman is able to produce patient-specific analyses of breast cancer management options based on the 24 clinical studies currently encoded in its knowledge base. The Roundsman system is a first step in exploring how the computer can help to bring a critical analysis of the relevant literature to the physician, structured around a particular patient and treatment decision.
authors.forename: G D
authors.initials: GD
authors.lastname: Rennels
authors.forename: E H
authors.initials: EH
authors.lastname: Shortliffe
authors.forename: F E
authors.initials: FE
authors.lastname: Stockdale
authors.forename: P L
authors.initials: PL
authors.lastname: Miller
mesh_terms: D001185:Artificial Intelligence; D001943:Breast Neoplasms / Q000628:therapy; D002986:Clinical Trials as Topic; D003658:Decision Making, Computer-Assisted; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008962:Models, Theoretical