Deep learning for intracranial hemorrhage detection and classification in brain CT scans: a systematic review and hybrid model approach - Scorecard - MDSpire

Deep learning for intracranial hemorrhage detection and classification in brain CT scans: a systematic review and hybrid model approach

  • By

  • Harshith V.

  • Bhargavram Athray

  • Likhitha T. Murthy

  • Samyukta Joshi

  • Ameena Amreen Ayoob

  • Sai Chakith M. R.

  • Pruthvish Reddy

  • Ranjith Raj

  • Vikram Patil

  • Deepak Benny

  • Shiva Prasad Kollur

  • Kasim Sakran Abass

  • Victor Stupin

  • Sushma Pradeep

  • Chandan Shivamallu

  • Ekaterina Silina

  • April 7, 2026

  • 0 min

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Clinical Scorecard: Utilizing Deep Learning Techniques for the Detection and Classification of Intracranial Hemorrhage in Brain CT Imaging: A Comprehensive Review and Hybrid Model Strategy

At a Glance

CategoryDetail
ConditionIntracranial hemorrhage (ICH), including subtypes such as epidural, subdural, intraparenchymal, intraventricular, and subarachnoid hemorrhages
Key MechanismsAutomated detection and classification of ICH using machine learning (ML) and deep learning (DL) models applied to non-contrast CT scans, including convolutional neural networks (CNNs), 3D CNNs, hybrid models, and transformer-based architectures
Target PopulationPatients presenting with suspected acute intracranial hemorrhage, including trauma patients and those with altered consciousness or on anticoagulants
Care SettingEmergency and neuroimaging clinical settings requiring rapid diagnosis and decision support

Key Highlights

  • Non-contrast CT is the primary imaging modality for rapid detection of acute ICH in emergency settings
  • Deep learning models, especially hybrid and transformer-based architectures, show improved sensitivity and specificity for ICH subtype classification
  • Challenges include dataset heterogeneity, class imbalance, inconsistent labeling, and the need for large-scale multi-center validation

Guideline-Based Recommendations

Diagnosis

  • Use non-contrast CT as first-line imaging for suspected acute ICH
  • Employ automated ML/DL tools to assist in rapid detection and classification of hemorrhage subtypes to reduce oversight
  • Consider MRI for age differentiation of hemorrhage when clinically indicated

Management

  • Early detection of even subtle hemorrhages is critical to guide monitoring, follow-up imaging, and urgent intervention
  • Integrate AI-assisted decision support systems into clinical workflows to improve diagnostic speed and accuracy

Monitoring & Follow-up

  • Monitor patients closely within the first 24 hours due to high risk of deterioration
  • Use follow-up imaging guided by initial detection and classification results

Risks

  • Potential for missed subtle hemorrhages during manual CT interpretation, especially in busy clinical environments
  • Variability in CT acquisition and labeling may affect model generalizability and robustness

Patient & Prescribing Data

Patients with suspected acute intracranial hemorrhage undergoing non-contrast CT imaging

Automated detection and classification models can support timely diagnosis and treatment decisions, potentially improving outcomes by enabling rapid intervention

Clinical Best Practices

  • Apply preprocessing techniques such as Hounsfield Unit windowing, skull stripping, and data augmentation to enhance model performance
  • Utilize explainable AI methods like Grad-CAM to improve model interpretability and clinical trust
  • Adopt hybrid and transformer-based DL models to leverage enhanced feature representation capabilities
  • Address dataset limitations by pursuing large-scale, multi-center validation studies
  • Integrate AI tools as adjuncts to expert radiologist interpretation rather than replacements

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