Comparing NeuroQuant and volBrain Software for Automated Brain Analysis

Abstract

\n Background and PurposeAutomated brain volume analysis from MRI images, is gaining an important role in computer-aided diagnosis. This study compares the volumes of brain segments that measured by two automated brain analysis software: NeuroQuant and volBrain. The aim is to investigate the quantitative and qualitative reliability of automated brain analysis.MethodsWe compared same brain segment volume measurements, from 45 patients, that calculated with both NeuroQuant and volBrain software. The statistical two-tailed unpaired t-test method used to determine if there is a significant difference on the same segment measurements performed from each software. Additionally, least square method used, to provide any evidence of linear correlation between them. In a case of extreme difference, manual volume measurement of a segment was performed, with JIM8 software.ResultsFrom the comparison of brain segments volumetric measurements made by NeuroQuant and volBrain, the differences for the Intracranial Cavity, Putamen, Thalamus and Amygdala considered extremely significant, the Whole Brain, Cerebellum, Hippocampus considered not significant, White Matter considered quite significant. In most cases strong linear correlation between the two software measurements found.ConclusionsThe unexpected significant differences found in some segments raised questions about the reliability of automated volume analysis as a quantitative tool. Strong linear correlation of the volumes presents that both software finally provides good qualitative information on brain structures, which is an important factor for computed aided diagnosis.