Multi-Modal Graph Neural Networks for Colposcopy Data Classification and Visualization.

backgroundCervical lesion classification is essential for early detection of cervical cancer. While deep learning methods have shown promise, most rely on single-modal data or require extensive manual annotations. This study proposes a novel Graph Neural Network (GNN)-based framework that integrates colposcopy images, segmentation masks, and graph representations for improved lesion classification.

methodsWe developed a fully connected graph-based architecture using GCNConv layers with global mean pooling and optimized it via grid search. A five-fold cross-validation protocol was employed to evaluate performance before (1-100 epochs) and after fine-tuning (101-151 epochs). Performance metrics included macro-average F1-score and validation accuracy. Visualizations were used for model interpretability.

resultsThe model achieved a macro-average F1-score of 89.4% and validation accuracy of 92.1% before fine-tuning, which improved to 94.56% and 98.98%, respectively, after fine-tuning. LIME-based visual explanations validated models focus on discriminative lesion regions.

conclusionsThis study highlights the potential of graph-based multi-modal learning for cervical lesion analysis. Collaborating with the MNJ Institute of Oncology, the framework shows promise for clinical use.