COVID-19 prognosis with artificial intelligence (AI)
Since the first appearance of COVID-19, a significant gain in knowledge in diagnostics, therapy and prevention has been achieved. However, there is still a lack of substantial understanding of why some patients suffer a severe acute or chronic course, while others show only mild symptoms. Our project aims to make a contribution to this question.
Background
Some key measures to control COVID-19 and to provide adequate patient care are fast and reliable diagnosis and severity assessment. Of the initially moderate to severe cases, some recover completely while others deteriorate and need invasive ventilation support. The long-term effects on the lung in severe cases are largely unknown. The predictive role of radiology and laboratory and clinical parameters for the acute and chronic state is not yet well understood.
Research aims
Together with an international team from Inselspital Bern, the University of Parma, Italy, and Yale University, USA, we wish to develop an artificial intelligence (AI)-based system that combines information from thoracic computer tomography, laboratory parameters and clinical data to predict the seven-day progression based on the current condition of a patient in the acute phase as well as the chronicity of the disease. This will allow better assessment of the current condition of the patient, identification of patients at risk and could ultimately provide important information for planning hospital resources under intense pressure.
Expected results and envisaged products
Due to the large database and data depth as well as the integrative design, we expect our multi-omics AI-based approach to achieve higher accuracy than an AI-based model based solely on imaging or non-imaging information. This model is also intended to contribute to a better understanding of the various factors relevant for assessing and predicting the severity of COVID-19. As soon as the AI model is established, we plan to develop a COVID-19 app for risk stratification with high diagnostic accuracy.
Specific contribution to tackle the current pandemic
Determining faster and more accurate diagnoses as well as assessment of expected disease outcome in COVID-19 patients based on the proposed AI system will contribute to better risk assessment of the disease and improve physician efficiency. In particular, we expect radiologists to be able to make faster and more accurate diagnoses. Rapid implementation of our system will facilitate patient care and improve our understanding of which parameters or which combination of parameters is relevant to deterioration of the patient’s condition.
Original title
AI-multi-omics-based Prognostic Stratification of COVID-19 Patients in Acute and Chronic State