Impact of Downsampling Size and Interpretation Methods on Diagnostic Accuracy in Deep Learning Model for Breast Cancer Using Digital Breast Tomosynthesis Images

Abstract

While deep learning (DL) models have shown promise in breast cancer diagnosis using digital breast tomosynthesis (DBT) images, the impact of varying matrix sizes and image interpolation methods on diagnostic accuracy remains unclear. Understanding these effects is essential to optimize preprocessing steps for DL models, which can lead to more efficient training processes, improved diagnostic accuracy, and better utilization of computational resources. Our institutional review board approved this retrospective study and waived the requirement for informed consent from the patients. In this study, 499 patients (29-90 years old, mean age 50.5 years) who underwent breast tomosynthesis were included. We performed downsampling to 256 × 256, 128 × 128, 64 × 64, and 32 × 32 using five image interpolation methods: Nearest (NN), Bilinear (BL), Bicubic (BC), Hamming (HM), and Lanczos (LC). The diagnostic accuracy of the DL model was assessed by mean AUC with its 95% confidence interval (CI). DL models with downsampled images to 256 × 256 pixels using the LC interpolation method showed a significantly lower AUC than the original 512 × 512 pixels model. This decrease was also observed with the 128 × 128 pixels DL models using HM and LC methods. All interpolation methods showed a significant decrease in AUC for the 64 × 64 and 32 × 32 pixels DL models. Our results highlight the significant impact of downsampling size and interpolation methods on the diagnostic performance of DL models. Understanding these effects is essential for optimizing preprocessing steps, which can enhance the accuracy and reliability of breast cancer diagnosis using DBT images.