Computer-Aided Tools for Diagnostics and Classification of Early Stages of Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease with Predictive Models for Risk Assessment of Complications (CATDC-NAFLD)
| Programmee: | International Collaboration |
| Code: | 13.820.18.02/GA |
| Execution period: | 2013 – 2015 |
| Institutions: | Institute of Mathematics and Computer Science, Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz |
| Project Leader: | Gaindric Constantin |
| Participants: | Secrieru Iulian, Popcova Olga, Gheorghitsa (Frinea) Irina, Ţurcan Svetlana |
Summary
The main scientific aim of the project is to develop methodology of formalization and analysis of vast volume of corresponding data to find and explore the processes of onset and progress of Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD). This will allow the development of Computer-Aided Tools for Diagnostics and Classification of Early Stages of NAFLD with Predictive Models for Risk Assessment of Complications (CATDC-NAFLD).
The goal of the project is to discover, formalize and reinforce medical knowledge about risk factors, diagnostics process, onset and progress of early stages of NAFLD.
NAFLD in its early stage is asymptomatic, often with normal liver function tests. It is difficult to diagnose, and prevalence studies are difficult to carry out. It is estimated that NAFLD is the most common liver disease both in countries with high income per capita form Western Europe and USA and in poor countries. Filling of the liver with fat can be detected by sonography. Sonography is reliable and accurate method for diagnostics of the diseases of hepato-pancreato-biliary region with sensitivity and specificity more than 70-80%. Due to low cost, safety, and accessibility, it is admitted by experts as the imaging technique of choice for screening in clinical practice.
Given the current state as described above, Moldovan-German research team will concentrate on clinical features, laboratory tests and sonographic nosological signs.
CATDC-NAFLD can be used by three categories of users – i) specialized physicians, ii) general practitioners, iii) patients, in the following modes:- to obtain support in classification of early stages of NAFLD and assistance in its diagnostic process;
- to determine risks of health state aggravation and possible scenarios of the diseases progress;
- to guide patient in his self care activities to minimize aggravation risks.
