Quantifying the tradeoff between uniform computer-based and nonuniform manual sampling in stereology

Zvi Markowitz; Murray H. Loew

doi:10.1117/12.535438

12 May 2004 Quantifying the tradeoff between uniform computer-based and nonuniform manual sampling in stereology

Zvi Markowitz, Murray H. Loew

Proceedings Volume 5370, Medical Imaging 2004: Image Processing; (2004) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.535438
Event: Medical Imaging 2004, 2004, San Diego, California, United States

Abstract

Estimation of ratio or volume of tissue types in an image requires both mensuration and classification. The former is achieved through stereology - a set of techniques that estimate such parameters as length, area, surface area, volume, number and ratio. Classification is achieved by extracting features that capture the discriminating information about tissue type. Typically, manual stereological methods are based on uniform sampling. Nonuniform sampling, however, can yield better results for the same manual effort (hence, more-efficient) if we have prior knowledge of the spatial distribution or location of the parameter of interest. Both stereology and classification can be performed either manually or by computer. Manual techniques for the combination are based on coarse point counting (low resolution), but assumed perfect pixel classification. Computer-based methods, on the other hand, rely on very fine point counting but in general suffer from imperfect pixel classification. This paper examines the interaction between manual (nonuniform-sampling) and uniform-sampling image processing-based approaches; in particular, we present a measure that combines the classification and measurement errors. Analysis of the variance is used to define the conditions under which each method and its sampling design is and is not advantageous despite its underlying error. This allows the user to choose a method that optimizes overall performance, given the human and machine capabilities available. Illustrations are given of cases in which each method can be preferable, as measured by the variance of the estimate of the performance that was inferred from the measurement.

Citation Download Citation

Zvi Markowitz and Murray H. Loew "Quantifying the tradeoff between uniform computer-based and nonuniform manual sampling in stereology", Proc. SPIE 5370, Medical Imaging 2004: Image Processing, (12 May 2004); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.535438

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