Covid-19: AI-based X-rays with 98 per cent accuracy may replace PCR tests

Scottish researchers have developed new Artificial Intelligence AI technologybased Xrays that can likely replace currently used PCR tests for detecting Covid19 infectionsThe technology developed by experts at the University of the West of Scotland UWS is capable of accurately diagnosing Covid19 in just a few minutes far more quickly than a PCR test which typically takes around 2 hours and with 98 per cent accuracyIt is hoped that the technology can eventually be used to help relieve strain on hardpressed accident and emergency departments particularly in countries where PCR tests are not readily availableThe stateoftheart technique utilises Xray technology comparing scans to a database of around 3000 images belonging to patients with Covid19 healthy individuals and people with viral pneumoniaIt then uses an AI process known as deep convolutional neural network an algorithm typically used to analyse visual imagery to make a diagnosisDuring an extensive testing phase the technique proved to be more than 98 per cent accurate the researchers saidThere has long been a need for a quick and reliable tool that can detect Covid19 and this has become even more true with the upswing of the Omicron variant said Professor Naeem Ramzan Director of the Affective and Human Computing for SMART Environments Research Centre at UWSSeveral countries are unable to carry out large numbers of Covid tests because of limited diagnosis tools but this technique utilises easily accessible technology to quickly detect the virusCovid19 symptoms are not visible in Xrays during the early stages of infection so it is important to note that the technology cannot fully replace PCR testsHowever it can still play an important role in curtailing the viruses spread especially when PCR tests are not readily available Ramzan saidThe Xrays could prove to be crucial and potentially lifesaving when diagnosing severe cases of the virus helping determine what treatment may be required The team now plans to expand the study incorporating a greater database of Xrays images acquired by different models of Xrays machines to evaluate the suitability of the approach in a clinical settingThis story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed agencies Midday accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability trustworthiness reliability and data of the text Midday managementmiddaycom reserves the sole right to alter delete or remove without notice the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever