Lung cancer

We are involved in early studies of CT lung cancer screening as well as incorporation of artificial intelligence tools for lung nodule detection, follow-up and management.

Overview

Lung cancer is one of the most fatal cancers, with a poor outcome mostly due to late detection. The early identification of lung nodules is vital to ensure early stage (and treatable/curable) lung cancer is diagnosed. Edinburgh Imaging is playing a central role in this, working together with clinical colleagues at NHS Lothian and academic colleagues at the Usher Institute.

There are several strands to this research:

Development of novel nodule detection and characterization software, which serves as a back-up for radiologists and has been shown to improve detection of these early lung nodules. Software has been rolled out across NHS Lothian for detection of lung nodules on routine chest CT. A HDRUK funded project, INPACT, will further explore the impact of this software on patient management
Development of a standardized reporting template with patient management according to established guidelines, once lung nodules are detected. A European project (PINPOINT), funded by Astra Zeneca and Aidence, will evaluate the automation of lung nodule detection and lung nodule management.
Support of CT based lung cancer screening, which is focused on particular groups of people who are at increased risk for developing lung cancer. This first Scottish pilot particularly aims to develop ways of including those who are hard to reach, who tend to be in underprivileged areas around Edinburgh and beyond (the LUNGSCOT study).