Computer-aided detection of lung nodules: influence of the image reconstruction kernel for computer-aided detection performance.
OBJECTIVE
To evaluate the relationship between a computed tomographic reconstruction kernel and the sensitivity of a computer-aided detection (CAD) system for lung nodule detection.


METHODS
We retrospectively studied 36 consecutive patients with no known pulmonary nodules who underwent low-dose computed tomography for lung cancer screening with 3 different reconstruction kernels (B, C, and L). All series were reviewed with a commercial CAD system for lung nodule detection.


RESULTS
The 36 scans showed 231 uncalcified nodules (170 micronodules and 61 nodules). There was little variation of sensitivities for each series (82%, 88%, and 82% for the nodules of B, C, and L, respectively). When the results of 2 series were combined, sensitivities were boosted (B + C, 89%; B + L, 95%; and C + L, 96% for the nodules).


CONCLUSIONS
Sensitivity of the CAD system was influenced by the selection of the reconstruction kernel. By combining data from 2 different kernels, CAD sensitivity can be elevated without further patient radiation exposure.
Hwang
Jiyoung
J
Department of Radiology, Center for Imaging Science, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Gangnam-Gu, Seoul, Korea.
Chung
Myung Jin
MJ
Bae
Younga
Y
Shin
Kyung Min
KM
Jeong
Sun Young
SY
Lee
Kyung Soo
KS
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007091:Image Processing, Computer-Assisted / Q000379:methods*; D008168:Lung / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D008175:Lung Neoplasms / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging*; D008297:Male; D008403:Mass Screening / Q000379:methods; D008875:Middle Aged; D015588:Observer Variation; D011857:Radiographic Image Interpretation, Computer-Assisted / Q000379:methods*; D015203:Reproducibility of Results; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D012680:Sensitivity and Specificity; D014057:Tomography, X-Ray Computed / Q000379:methods*