Development of radiology prediction models using feature analysis.

Overview

RATIONALE AND OBJECTIVES: This article provides an introduction to prediction models and their application in diagnostic imaging research. Prediction models capitalize on the different degrees of association among variables to make a prediction of a health state, formulate a rule, or quantify individual contributions of various predictor variables. The purpose of this article is to elucidate the rationale, implication, and interpretation of prediction models using imaging features. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The techniques and challenges of developing, testing, and implementing prediction models are described. Prediction model development methods are similar to data-mining techniques. RESULTS: Learning objectives are to review prediction rule (model) methods, learn how prediction models may be applied to feature analysis, and understand the challenges of developing, testing, and implementing prediction models.