Algorithm Programming for 3D Fractal Dimension Evaluation

An algorithm has been programmed with MATLAB (Mathworks Inc., USA) to calculate Dual Energy Computed Tomography (DECT) images fractal dimension. It is based upon MapFractalCount ImageJ (National Institute of Health, USA) plugin. It estimates 3D structures fractal dimension value. It works both for standard images and for DECT virtual reconstructed images (monochromatic virtual images, iodine absorption maps and perfusion studies). This software adds value to similar algorithms, since it automatizes measurement process, calculates fractal dimension at 3D contours and averages final result by weighting of lesion size at each slice. It has been assessed for 68 patients presenting with pulmonary masses, and the result was compared to classical methodology of measuring fractal dimension only at the largest diameter lesion slice.