Brief Summary:
In a groundbreaking study, researchers used artificial intelligence (AI) to improve the way MS is monitored through magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans.
They aimed to leverage AI to assist in achieving No Evidence of Disease Activity (NEDA), which means no clinical relapses, no MRI activity, and no worsening of disability. In essence, this aligns with the overarching goal of using our MS disease modifying therapies (DMTs).
Standard radiology reports often measure features or characteristics rather than numbers and measurements, so they may miss some important details. The AI-based tool showed higher sensitivity (ability to detect MS activity) without losing accuracy compared to standard reports.
 What Did the Researchers Do?
The MS Australia-funded researchers used an AI tool to analyse 397 MRI scans of people with MS and compared the results with standard radiology reports.
The researchers also used the AI tool to measure the size of different parts of the brain, which is important for tracking the progression of MS.
The AI tool could even be used to compare one person’s MRI results with others to give a better understanding of their condition.
What Did the Researchers Find?
The researchers made some key discoveries in their study. They found that the AI tool they used was much better at picking up important details during MS care in MRI scans compared to standard radiology reports. It had a sensitivity of 93.3%, meaning it could find some degree of MS activity in almost all cases.
They also found that the AI tool was just as good as a specialised clinical trial laboratory at measuring MS-related features such as lesion activity and brain volume changes. It even measured a significant biomarker of nerve cell damage (neurodegeneration), called percentage brain volume loss (PBVC), and was very close in accuracy to the clinical laboratory (0.32% vs. 0.36%).
Furthermore, the AI tool compared individuals’ MRI results with others who have MS. This comparison helped show how a person’s MS related to others with the disease.
What Does This Mean for People with MS?
For people with MS, this research suggests that AI technology can help make MRI scans more accurate and informative.
It can assist doctors in monitoring the disease more effectively and promote earlier decision-making regarding necessary treatments and management changes. This could lead to better and more precise management of MS, ultimately improving the quality of care for those with the condition.