Brain Tumour Temporal Monitoring of Interval Change Using Digital Image Subtraction Technique

Abstract

A process that involves the registration of two brain Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) acquisitions is proposed for the subtraction between previous and current images at two different follow-up (FU) time points. Brain tumours can be non-cancerous (benign) or cancerous (malignant). Treatment choices for these conditions rely on the type of brain tumour as well as its size and location. Brain cancer is a fast-spreading tumour that must be treated in time. MRI is commonly used in the detection of early signs of abnormality in the brain area because it provides clear details. Abnormalities include the presence of cysts, haematomas or tumour cells. A sequence of images can be used to detect the progression of such abnormalities. A previous study on conventional (CONV) visual reading reported low accuracy and speed in the early detection of abnormalities, specifically in brain images. It can affect the proper diagnosis and treatment of the patient. A digital subtraction technique that involves two images acquired at two interval time points and their subtraction for the detection of the progression of abnormalities in the brain image was proposed in this study. MRI datasets of five patients, including a series of brain images, were retrieved retrospectively in this study. All methods were carried out using the MATLAB programming platform. ROI volume and diameter for both regions were recorded to analyse progression details, location, shape variations and size alteration of tumours. This study promotes the use of digital subtraction techniques on brain MRIs to track any abnormality and achieve early diagnosis and accuracy whilst reducing reading time. Thus, improving the diagnostic information for physicians can enhance the treatment plan for patients.