Model-based correction of segmentation errors in digitised histological images

Abstract

This paper describes an application of topological, model-based methods for the algorithmic correction of segmentation errors in digitised histological images. The topological analysis is provided by the spatial logic Discrete Mereotopology and integrates qualitative spatial reasoning and constraint satisfaction methods with classical image processing methods. A set of eight topological relations defined on binary segmented regions are factored out and reworked as nodes of a set of directed graphs. The graphs encode and constrain a set of set-theoretic and topological segmentation operations on regions, so that the interpreted images and any proposed changes made to the regions can be made to conform to a valid histological model. Worked examples are given using images of H&E stained H400 cell line cultures.