Harmonized Import of Clinical Research Data for the Open Source Image Analysis Platform Kaapana

Abstract

While the DICOM standard facilitates a consistent approach to image data, integrating clinical and patient data from unstructured formats into medical image analysis platforms remains a complex challenge. To address this problem, we propose a web-based tool for interactive harmonization of semi-structured data tables and facilitating their integration into image analysis platforms such as Kaapana. Harmonization is performed with respect to a given schema. The approach supports researchers throughout the data lifecycle by enabling the interactive creation of migration scripts to extend the life of data in changing environments. The proposed tool helps researchers enhance data utilization in the medical field by making unharmonized data available. Despite its potential, the proposed solution has limitations when handling large data sets and faces potential security issues due to the use of JavasScript. Nevertheless, it offers considerable benefits by assisting in data harmonization, enabling the use of data from various sources, and therefore reducing costs by eliminating the need for redundant data collection.