Iowa Patent of the Month – November 2023

Ear infections, particularly acute otitis media (AOM), present challenges in accurate diagnosis. The subjective nature of conventional methods and the potential for error in interpretation have historically led to an over-diagnosis of ear infections. However, the landscape of medical diagnostics is rapidly transforming, and Digital Diagnostics, Inc. is pioneering the future of healthcare by developing an autonomous diagnostic approach that doesn’t rely on human intervention.

By leveraging cutting-edge AI and machine learning models, it accurately assesses, diagnoses, and prescribes therapy for ear infections, significantly reducing the burden caused by over-diagnosis in the current systems.

The technology uses a wealth of patient data—medical history, vitals, and even patient-provided information about their condition. Biomarker features extracted from ear measurements are synthesized with this data, creating an input set for the machine learning model. These biomarker features, including image and acoustic markers, hold critical information about the ear’s condition, such as anatomical structures and responses to pressure stimuli. It’s this depth of information that’s revolutionizing the diagnostic landscape.

The technology learns from extensive training examples, crafting a diagnostic model that becomes increasingly accurate. As a result, it outputs probability-based diagnoses, indicating the likelihood of ear infections, empowering healthcare professionals with reliable insights.

What’s particularly transformative is the direct impact on treatment. The system not only diagnoses but also prescribes therapy based on the diagnosis. This includes leveraging expert systems, employing rules, and probability models to determine the most effective course of action for the patient. 

This autonomous diagnostic approach marks a seismic shift in healthcare. Digital Diagnostics’ success with their flagship product, LumineticsCore™ (previously IDx-DR) , which diagnoses diabetic retinopathy, underscores their ability to democratize healthcare by delivering autonomous, efficient, and equitable diagnostic platforms.

By transforming diagnostics, Digital Diagnostics is paving the way for a new standard of care, driving better patient outcomes and revolutionizing the accessibility and affordability of quality healthcare.

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