Application of machine learning in the analysis of multiparametric MRI data for the differentiation of treatment responses in breast cancer: retrospective study

Abstract

Objective The objective of this study is to develop and validate a multiparametric MRI model employing machine learning to predict the effectiveness of treatment and the stage of breast cancer. Methods The study encompassed 400 female patients diagnosed with breast cancer, with 200 individuals allocated to both the control and experimental groups, undergoing examinations in Shenzhen, China, during the period 2017–2023. This study pertains to retrospective research. Multiparametric MRI was employed to extract data concerning tumor size, blood flow, and metabolism. Results The model achieved high accuracy, predicting treatment outcomes with an accuracy of 92%, sensitivity of 88%, and specificity of 95%. The model effectively classified breast cancer stages: stage I, 38% (P = 0.027); stage II, 72% (P = 0.014); stage III, 50% (P = 0.032); and stage IV, 45% (P = 0.041). Conclusions The developed model, utilizing multiparametric MRI and machine learning, exhibits high accuracy in predicting the effectiveness of treatment and breast cancer staging. These findings affirm the model’s potential to enhance treatment strategies and personalize approaches for patients diagnosed with breast cancer. Our study presents an innovative approach to the diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer, integrating MRI data with machine learning algorithms. We demonstrate that the developed model exhibits high accuracy in predicting treatment efficacy and differentiating cancer stages. This underscores the importance of utilizing MRI and machine learning algorithms to enhance the diagnosis and individualization of treatment for this disease.