Artificial intelligence: a new field of knowledge for nephrologists?

• Published in: Clinical kidney journal Vol. 16; no. 12; pp. 2314 - 2326
• Main Authors: Fayos De Arizón, Leonor, Viera, Elizabeth R, Pilco, Melissa, Perera, Alexandre, De Maeztu, Gabriel, Nicolau, Anna, Furlano, Monica, Torra, Roser
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Oxford Oxford University Press 01.12.2023
• Subjects: Algorithms; Artificial intelligence; Computational linguistics; Data mining; Internet/Web search services; Kidney diseases; Language processing; Machine learning; Medical imaging equipment; Natural language interfaces; Nephrology; Spain; nephrology; kidney; natural language processing; machine learning; artificial intelligence
• ISSN: 2048-8505; 2048-8513; 2048-8513
• DOI: 10.1093/ckj/sfad182

Artificial intelligence (AI) is a science that involves creating machines that can imitate human intelligence and learn. AI is ubiquitous in our daily lives, from search engines like Google to home assistants like Alexa and, more recently, OpenAI with its chatbot. AI can improve clinical care and research, but its use requires a solid understanding of its fundamentals, the promises and perils of algorithmic fairness, the barriers and solutions to its clinical implementation, and the pathways to developing an AI-competent workforce. The potential of AI in the field of nephrology is vast, particularly in the areas of diagnosis, treatment and prediction. One of the most significant advantages of AI is the ability to improve diagnostic accuracy. Machine learning algorithms can be trained to recognize patterns in patient data, including lab results, imaging and medical history, in order to identify early signs of kidney disease and thereby allow timely diagnoses and prompt initiation of treatment plans that can improve outcomes for patients. In short, AI holds the promise of advancing personalized medicine to new levels. While AI has tremendous potential, there are also significant challenges to its implementation, including data access and quality, data privacy and security, bias, trustworthiness, computing power, AI integration and legal issues. The European Commission's proposed regulatory framework for AI technology will play a significant role in ensuring the safe and ethical implementation of these technologies in the healthcare industry. Training nephrologists in the fundamentals of AI is imperative because traditionally, decision-making pertaining to the diagnosis, prognosis and treatment of renal patients has relied on ingrained practices, whereas AI serves as a powerful tool for swiftly and confidently synthesizing this information. Lay Summary Artificial intelligence (AI) has become an integral part of our lives, from search engines and home assistants to advanced chatbots like ChatGPT. In the field of nephrology, AI holds immense potential for improving diagnosis, treatment and prediction. AI algorithms can be trained to analyze patient data, including lab results, medical history and imaging, to identify early signs of kidney disease. This enables timely diagnoses and personalized treatment plans, leading to better patient outcomes. However, the implementation of AI in healthcare faces several challenges. The European Commission's proposed regulatory framework aims to promote the safe and ethical use of AI in healthcare. To fully leverage the benefits of AI, nephrologists and other healthcare professionals need to be educated about its fundamentals and its potential applications in routine patient care. This will enable them to effectively utilize AI technologies and provide better care for kidney patients.