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QCT Imaging Core Unit
The aims of the research project Quantitative Computed Tomography (QCT) Imaging Core Unit are two-fold. Primarily, it is intended to validate the global clinical value of CT scanning and image-derived quantitative biomarkers for the treatment of COPD and its comorbidities. Secondarily, it is intended to develop a clinically applicable workflow and infrastructure for the multicenter-implementation of QCT in a clinical decision-making environment.
We use modern medical imaging technology supported by computer-aided diagnosis tools, being an enormous source of potentially valuable information – in the case of COPD first of all computed tomography (CT). Beyond the visual evaluation and free speech reporting of categoric information from CT scans, quantitative CT (QCT: the fully automated segmentation and quantitation of lung and airway pathology) offers a variety of image-derived biomarker candidates for the assessment and follow-up of disease severity (“Radiomics”). However, establishment of a measurement or index as biomarker does not only require high accuracy in image acquisition and post-processing as well as precision of measurements, but also clinical validation. It is, therefore, one of the major aims of the imaging subproject to finally validate and implement candidate biomarkers derived from QCT in an advanced clinical environment. This goal comprises quantitative changes in airway structure (e. g., re-modeling), lung density (e. g., emphysema index), and functional evaluation using in- and expiratory CT scans for the detection of small airways disease.
Beyond the changes directly related to COPD, relevant comorbidities, as detected with CT, will be included into the evaluation (i. e., pulmonary nodules/lung cancer, vascular calcifications, osteoporosis, obesity, sarcopenia). Implementing these data in the clinical decision tool will enable us to lever the global clinical value of CT scanning and of single or combined biomarkers.
In the German multi-center cohort study COSYCONET, we have already introduced a high level of standardization in image acquisition, computer-aided post-processing, and structured reading. Cross-center quality controls were established to assure a consistent and comparable image quality throughout multiple centers. Building on this expertise, we aim to achieve the highest possible accuracy in image acquisition and post-processing as well as precision of measurements and diagnosis, which are prerequisites for the clinical establishment and validation of biomarkers for further use within the integrated research platform. Beyond the purposes for the current study, it is expected that the accomplishments will become available for broad clinical use.
People involved
Principle Investigators
Prof. Dr. med. Hans-Ulrich Kauczor, M. D.
Klinik für Diagnostische und Interventionelle Radiologie
Universitätsklinikum Heidelberg
Prof. Dr. med. Jürgen Biederer
Klinik für Diagnostische und Interventionelle Radiologie
Universitätsklinikum Heidelberg
Further Investigators
Dr. med. Bettina Budai (PhD)
Klinik für Diagnostische und Interventionelle Radiologie
Universitätsklinikum Heidelberg
Luca Dulz, M. Sc.
Klinik für Diagnostische und Interventionelle Radiologie
Universitätsklinikum Heidelberg
Ondrej Havlicek, M. Sc.
Klinik für Diagnostische und Interventionelle Radiologie
Universitätsklinikum Heidelberg
Dr. med. Sebastian Nauck
Klinik für Diagnostische und Interventionelle Radiologie
Universitätsklinikum Heidelberg
Dr. med. Viktoria Palm
Klinik für Diagnostische und Interventionelle Radiologie
Universitätsklinikum Heidelberg
Dr. Oyunbileg von Stackelberg
Abteilung Wissenschaftliches Projektmanagement
Universitätsklinikum Heidelberg
