Efficient deep learning model for classifying lung cancer images using normalized stain agnostic feature method and FastAI-2.

BACKGROUND

Lung cancer has the highest global fatality rate, with diagnosis primarily relying on histological tissue sample analysis. Accurate classification is critical for treatment planning and patient outcomes.

METHODS

This study develops a computer-assisted diagnosis system for non-small cell lung cancer histology classification, utilizing the FastAI-2 framework with a modified ResNet-34 architecture. The methodology includes stain normalization using LAB colour space for colour consistency, followed by deep learning-based classification. The proposed model is trained on the LC25000 dataset and compared with VGG11 and SqueezeNet1_1, demonstrating modified ResNet-34's optimal balance between depth and performance. FastAI-2 enhances computational efficiency, enabling rapid convergence with minimal training time.

RESULTS

The proposed system achieved 99.78% accuracy, confirming the effectiveness of automated lung cancer histopathology classification. This study highlights the potential of artificial intelligence (AI)-driven diagnostic tools to assist pathologists by improving accuracy, reducing workload, and enhancing decision-making in clinical settings.