Summary:
In a groundbreaking study conducted by FIDMAG Germanes Hospitalàries Research Foundation in Barcelona and CIBERSAM, researchers found fingerprint images have emerged as potential predictors of schizophrenia, shedding new light on the diagnostic landscape of this complex mental disorder. Leveraging the power of convolutional neural networks (CNNs), a form of machine learning, the study pioneers a novel approach to identify abnormalities in fingerprints associated with schizophrenia, offering promising avenues for early detection and intervention. The study suggests that alterations in prenatal fingerprints may signal future mental health issues.
The study marks a significant leap forward in understanding the neural signatures of schizophrenia. By harnessing the capabilities of CNNs, a sophisticated computing system tailored for visual image analysis, researchers meticulously scrutinized fingerprint samples from 612 patients diagnosed with non-affective psychosis alongside 844 healthy individuals.
The findings unveiled a compelling correlation between certain fingerprint patterns and the presence of schizophrenia. Intriguingly, the researchers identified the right thumb as the most potent predictor, boasting an impressive 68% accuracy rate in distinguishing individuals with schizophrenia from those without the ailment. This discovery underscores the intricate interplay between neurological phenomena and external manifestations, suggesting that even seemingly unrelated physiological features may harbor vital clues about underlying mental health conditions.
However, the algorithm’s unexpected success in detecting bipolar disorder highlights challenges in distinguishing between psychoses at early stages. Further research is underway to refine the algorithm for more specific diagnoses.
The implications extend beyond schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, potentially aiding in the early detection of other neurodevelopmental disorders like autism.
This pioneering approach offers hope for improved mental health outcomes through early intervention and personalized treatment strategies.
Article written by La vanguardia
17/03/2024
Source:
La Vanguardia
https://www.lavanguardia.com/vida/20240317/9566644/ia-predecir-riesgo-sufrir-psicosis-traves-huellas-dedos.html