Applications of artificial intelligence in prostate cancer histopathology

Urol Oncol. 2024 Mar;42(3):37-47. doi: 10.1016/j.urolonc.2022.12.002. Epub 2023 Jan 11.

Abstract

The diagnosis of prostate cancer (PCa) depends on the evaluation of core needle biopsies by trained pathologists. Artificial intelligence (AI) derived models have been created to address the challenges posed by pathologists' increasing workload, workforce shortages, and variability in histopathology assessment. These models with histopathological parameters integrated into sophisticated neural networks demonstrate remarkable ability to identify, grade, and predict outcomes for PCa. Though the fully autonomous diagnosis of PCa remains elusive, recently published data suggests that AI has begun to serve as an initial screening tool, an assistant in the form of a real-time interactive interface during histological analysis, and as a second read system to detect false negative diagnoses. Our article aims to describe recent advances and future opportunities for AI in PCa histopathology.

Keywords: Artificial intelligence; Deep learning; Gleason grading; Histopathology; Machine learning; Prostate cancer.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Artificial Intelligence*
  • Biopsy, Large-Core Needle
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Neural Networks, Computer
  • Pathologists
  • Prostatic Neoplasms* / diagnosis