Contrast enhancement by digital equalization in digital mammography

摘要

We evaluated an image processing algorithm based on contrast enhancement by digital equalization (CEDE), which is designed to enhance image contrast by employing digital equalization of digital mammograms. Digital images were obtained on a Digital Mammography imaging system (Lorad). Mammograms were obtained of an anthropomorphic breast phantom (Rachel) with added simulated lesions. A statistical analysis was made of the processed images, and observer compared the visibility of simulated lesions in the processed image with the original image. The display contrast in processed images increased by up to -40%, which correlated well with a subjective improvement in lesion conspicuity. Our result indicate that the CEDE algorithm has the potential to improve mass lesion visibility in digital mammography.