Automatic detection of microaneurysms for diabetic retinopathy screening using fuzzy image processing

Abstract

Fuzzy image processing was proven to help improve the image quality for both medical and non-medical images. This paper presents a fuzzy techniques-based eye screening system for the detection of one of the most important visible signs of diabetic retinopathy; microaneurysms, small red spot on the retina with sharp margins. The proposed ophthalmic decision support system consists of an automatic acquisition, screening and classification of eye fundus images, which can assist in the diagnosis of the diabetic retinopathy. The developed system contains four main parts, namely the image acquisition, the image preprocessing with fuzzy techniques, the microaneurysms localisation and detection, and finally the image classification. The fuzzy image processing approach provides better results in the detection of microaneurysms.