Application of machine learning in the diagnosis of axial spondyloarthritis

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: In this review article, we describe the development and application of machine-learning models in the field of rheumatology to improve the detection and diagnosis rates of underdiagnosed rheumatologic conditions, such as ankylosing spondylitis and axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA). RECENT FINDINGS: In an attempt to aid in the earlier diagnosis of axSpA, we developed machine-learning models to predict a diagnosis of ankylosing spondylitis and axSpA using administrative claims and electronic medical record data. Machine-learning algorithms based on medical claims data predicted the diagnosis of ankylosing spondylitis better than a model developed based on clinical characteristics of ankylosing spondylitis. With additional clinical data, machine-learning algorithms developed using electronic medical records identified patients with axSpA with 82.6–91.8% accuracy. These two algorithms have helped us understand potential opportunities and challenges associated with each data set and with different analytic approaches. Efforts to refine and validate these machine-learning models are ongoing. SUMMARY: We discuss the challenges and benefits of machine-learning models in healthcare, along with potential opportunities for its application in the field of rheumatology, particularly in the early diagnosis of axSpA and ankylosing spondylitis.