Exploring Deep Learning Architectures for Diabetic Retinopathy Detection

Abstract

Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is a leading cause of blindness worldwide, affecting millions of dia- betic patients. Early detection and accurate classification of DR stages are crucial for preventing vision loss and improving patient outcomes. This survey paper presents a comprehensive anal- ysis of deep learning approaches for automatic detection and classification of diabetic retinopa- thy from fundus images. The proposed system utilizes Faster Region-based Convolutional Neural Networks (Faster R-CNN) architecture to accurately identify and categorize the sever- ity of DR in retinal images. The methodology encompasses image acquisition using fundus cameras, preprocessing for quality enhancement, deep feature learning for data-driven char- acterizations, and classification into various DR stages including No DR, Mild DR, Moderate DR, Proliferative DR, and Severe DR. This automated approach offers significant advantages over traditional manual screening methods, providing faster, more consistent, and cost-effective diagnosis capabilities.

The technical implementation focuses on developing robust algorithms for fundus image analysis, including preprocessing techniques for image enhancement, feature extraction using convolutional neural networks, and classification models optimized for medical imaging appli- cations. The system addresses challenges such as image quality variations, lighting conditions, and anatomical differences across patients. Performance evaluation encompasses accuracy met- rics, sensitivity, specificity, and area under the ROC curve (AUC) to ensure clinical reliability. The proposed Faster R-CNN architecture demonstrates superior performance compared to tra- ditional methods, achieving high accuracy in DR detection while maintaining computational efficiency suitable for clinical deployment. This automated screening system has the potential to significantly improve early detection rates, reduce healthcare costs, and enhance patient care quality in diabetic retinopathy management.