India to get AI aided X-ray device that can detect tuberculosis within a minute

In a bid to help the Centre fulfil its target of eliminating tuberculosis from India by 2025, a leading biotech company is set to launch India’s first portable X-ray device which can diagnose infectious disease in its early stages by using artificial intelligence (AI). Pune-based Mylab Discovery Solutions, on February 14, announced a partnership with Qure.ai, a leading provider of AI software for medical imaging, to deploy AI technology-enabled chest X-rays for early detection of tuberculosis and aid in universal lung health. 

Through this partnership, Mylab’s soon-to-be-launched handheld X-ray device, MyBeam, will leverage Qure.ai’s cutting-edge AI software, qXR, to improve the accuracy and speed of TB diagnosis. The test is said to be available in a few weeks and will cost nearly the same as normal X-Ray tests.

The two companies said the collaboration will be a key accelerator in the country’s mission to screen and detect patients for pulmonary TB and support the Union government’s strategic plan to eliminate the disease by 2025 while also improving access to screening among populations, who are at greater risk from this disease.

Hasmukh Rawal, MD and co-founder of Mylab Discovery Solutions, said, “Our hand-held X-ray device will strengthen our TB screening capabilities and with Qure.ai’s power of deep learning for radiology, the process will become much faster, more objective and scalable,” he said. “It is a perfect example of two home-grown companies coming together to contribute towards the nation's health.”

According to Prashant Warier, co-founder and chief executive at Qure.ai, the AI-enabled diagnostic tool would be an affordable solution and an ideal example of how technology can make a difference in the lives of millions. 

MyBeam is equipped with state-of-the-art high-frequency technology. The device offers high performance and greater speed as it acquires images within a few minutes. It is extremely compact and lightweight, which provides expanded clinical coverage and can be used in resource-limited settings or where there’s a lack of access to equipment.

qXR, on the other hand is a WHO-recommended application that uses deep learning algorithms to analyse chest X-rays and accurately identify TB in under a minute. Qure.ai’s lung health suite of products will complement the existing screening and diagnostic pathways and enable a sustained increase in active case findings, the company said.

As of now, the most commonly used diagnostic tool for tuberculosis is a skin test, though blood tests are becoming commonplace.