Analytic calculations and synthetic shapes for validation of quantitative contour comparison software

A high level of variability in reported values was observed in a recent survey of contour similarity measures (CSMs) calculation tools. Such variations in the output measurements prevent meaningful comparison between studies. The purpose of this study was to develop a dataset with analytically calculated gold standard values to facilitate standardization and ensure accuracy of CSM implementations. The dataset was generated in the Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine (DICOM) format. Both the dataset and the software used for its generation are made publicly available to encourage robust testing of CSM implementations for accuracy, improving consistency between different implementations.

Automated summary

A recent survey of contour similarity measures (CSMs) calculation tools revealed a high level of variability in reported values. This variability in output measurements hinders meaningful comparison between studies. The aim of this study was to create a dataset with analytically calculated gold standard values in order to promote standardization and ensure accuracy of CSM implementations. This dataset, generated in the DICOM format, along with the software used for its creation, is publicly available to encourage robust testing of CSM implementations for accuracy and to improve consistency between different implementations.