Using deep learning to assess the risk of oral cancer in patients with potentially malignant disorders

Deep Learning Image Analysis Algorithms to Improve Oral Cancer Risk Assessment for Oral Potentially Malignant Disorders

NIH-funded research Yale University · NIH-11120922

This study is looking to make it easier for doctors to understand the risk of oral cancer in patients with conditions like leukoplakia by using advanced technology to analyze tissue images, which could help improve how we prevent and treat these issues.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionYale University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (New Haven, United States)
Project IDNIH-11120922 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on improving the assessment of oral cancer risk in patients with oral potentially malignant disorders (OPMD) like leukoplakia. By utilizing advanced deep learning algorithms on histological images, the study aims to create a more consistent and accurate risk scoring system. This approach will analyze various cellular and tissue features to better predict the likelihood of progression to oral squamous cell carcinoma. The findings will be validated through a large retrospective study and prospective trials, potentially leading to enhanced treatment and prevention strategies.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with oral potentially malignant disorders, particularly those with leukoplakia.

Not a fit: Patients without oral potentially malignant disorders or those with conditions unrelated to oral cancer risk may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more accurate risk assessments and better treatment options for patients with oral potentially malignant disorders.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using deep learning for medical image analysis, suggesting that this approach could yield significant advancements in risk assessment for oral cancer.

Where this research is happening

New Haven, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.