Photodynamic Therapy for small peripheral non-small cell lung cancer using AI

2023 Fiscal Year Final Research Report

• Project/Area Number: 22K16580
• Research Category: Grant-in-Aid for Early-Career Scientists
• Allocation Type: Multi-year Fund
• Review Section: Basic Section 55040:Respiratory surgery-related
• Research Institution: Dokkyo Medical University
• Principal Investigator: Nishihira Morimichi 獨協医科大学, 医学部, 講師 (80621234)
• Project Period (FY): 2022-04-01 – 2024-03-31
• Keywords: 気管支鏡 / 肺癌 / PDT

Outline of Final Research Achievements

The aim of this study is to establish a more accurate irradiation method of photodynamic therapy (PDT) for small peripheral non-small lung cancer. 3D image construction software is used to guide the probe, and tumor components are analyzed using deep learning to adjust irradiation intensity for optimal laser irradiation. We are conducting a clinical trial in which laser irradiation distribution is determined using AI software and PDT is performed. Furthermore, we are using AI software to analyze and evaluate the efficacy of treatment. Multidimensional data profiles are created, compared, and discussed.

Free Research Field

呼吸器外科

Academic Significance and Societal Importance of the Research Achievements

肺癌臨床病期IA 期及びIB 期の非小細胞肺癌(non-small cell lung cancer, NSCLC)に対する標準治療は手術であり、手術が不適応の場合には放射線療法が推奨されるが、多発性または間質性肺炎合併や低肺機能などの理由から、どちらの治療もできない患者が存在する。このような患者にも安全に施行できる治療の確立は非常に重要である。
早期発見できたものの適切な治療を行えず無治療経過観察となっていた症例に対し、治療効果が期待できる低侵襲な治療法の選択肢を新たに提供できる意義は大きい。