Artikel
Computer based system for optimized strategies for differential diagnosis and follow up of uveitis patients
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Autoren
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A.M. Bauer
- Interdisciplinary Uveitis Center, University of Heidelberg
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U. Wiehler
- Interdisciplinary Uveitis Center, University of Heidelberg
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D. Plaza
- Institute of Medical Biometrics and Computer Science, University of Heidelberg
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R. Schmidt
- Institute of Medical Biometrics and Computer Science, University of Heidelberg
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S. Skonetzki
- Institute of Medical Biometrics and Computer Science, University of Heidelberg
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T. Wetter
- Institute of Medical Biometrics and Computer Science, University of Heidelberg
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M.D. Becker
- Interdisciplinary Uveitis Center, University of Heidelberg
| Veröffentlicht: | 22. September 2004 |
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Gliederung
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Objective
From the multiplicity of medical findings gained at the first examination of uveitis patients a decisive strategy for further determined laboratory investigation and classification might be deduced. To simplify the often confusing number of algorithms for the inexperienced examiner an online questionnaire was developed to advise diagnostic strategies for further investigation.
As there is no standardized system for evaluation of intraocular inflammation that is suitable for follow-up examination, clinical studies and benchmarking of different uveitis centers we developed a program for classification and documentation of uveitic changes.
Methods
The developed an algorithm for strategic procedure as coded via JAVA into an HTML code. Single findings are questioned consecutively. Applied terms are clearly defined by illustrated examples. The user is guided through required investigation guided by individually generated websites by means of an apache tomcat web server. Subsequently recommendations for appropriate laboratory investigations as well as advice for potential treatment is given.
The system for documentation is an independent program based on filemaker that determines an anterior and posterior uveitis score according to the guidelines of the International Ocular Inflammation Society (IOIS). After including visual acuity, intraocular pressure and steroid doses the current finding can be visualized by a radar graphic.
Results
First experiences with both programs show a high score for differential diagnosis classification with typical disease patterns as well as for the recommended strategies concerning laboratory tests in the first place. Secondly the use of the documentation system leads to simplification of complex courses as well as to the patients good understanding in the treatment due to the abstract visualization of the current finding.
Conclusions
These programs are meant to be an easily available help for colleagues who are inexperienced in treating uveitis patients. A free demo version is available via the homepage of the Interdisciplinary Uveitis Center Heidelberg
