Orbit image analysis machine learning software can be used for the histological quantification of acute ischemic stroke blood clots

PLoS One. 2019 Dec 5;14(12):e0225841. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0225841. eCollection 2019.

Abstract

Our aim was to assess the utility of a novel machine learning software (Orbit Image Analysis) in the histological quantification of acute ischemic stroke (AIS) clots. We analyzed 50 AIS blood clots retrieved using mechanical thrombectomy procedures. Following H&E staining, quantification of clot components was performed by two different methods: a pathologist using a reference standard method (Adobe Photoshop CC) and an experienced researcher using Orbit Image Analysis. Following quantification, the clots were categorized into 3 types: RBC dominant (≥60% RBCs), Mixed and Fibrin dominant (≥60% Fibrin). Correlations between clot composition and Hounsfield Units density on Computed Tomography (CT) were assessed. There was a significant correlation between the components of clots as quantified by the Orbit Image Analysis algorithm and the reference standard approach (ρ = 0.944**, p < 0.001, n = 150). A significant relationship was found between clot composition (RBC-Rich, Mixed, Fibrin-Rich) and the presence of a Hyperdense artery sign using the algorithmic method (X2(2) = 6.712, p = 0.035*) but not using the reference standard method (X2(2) = 3.924, p = 0.141). Orbit Image Analysis machine learning software can be used for the histological quantification of AIS clots, reproducibly generating composition analyses similar to current reference standard methods.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Artifacts
  • Brain Ischemia / complications
  • Brain Ischemia / diagnostic imaging*
  • Brain Ischemia / pathology
  • Cohort Studies
  • Erythrocytes / pathology
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Image Processing, Computer-Assisted*
  • Machine Learning*
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Orbit / diagnostic imaging*
  • Orbit / pathology
  • Software*
  • Stroke / complications
  • Stroke / diagnostic imaging*
  • Stroke / pathology
  • Thrombosis / complications
  • Thrombosis / diagnostic imaging*
  • Thrombosis / pathology
  • Young Adult