Clinical Study
Pilot Study
Discover our innovative app proposal and first use in a clinical setting. Our pilot study at UCLH demonstrated neoSCB’s accuracy and potential as a cost-effective, non-invasive alternative to traditional methods.
*real baby not pictured for privacy
Study Overview
Our pilot study was conducted at the University College London Hospital Neonatal Care Unit in 2019 to test the neoSCB app for screening neonatal jaundice by imaging the sclera. A total of 51 neonates were included in the study. We found that the app accurately predicted total serum bilirubin levels, with a strong correlation and high sensitivity for detecting significant jaundice, demonstrating its potential as an effective screening tool.
Methodology
- Image Capture: The app captures two images using the smartphone’s front-facing camera—one with the screen illuminated and one without. This technique, known as ambient subtraction, helps isolate the sclera’s color from ambient light.
- Data Collection: Images were taken of the neonates’ sclera and total serum bilirubin (TSB) levels were measured using blood tests within 20 minutes of image capture.
- Participants: 51 neonates were imaged, with a mix of both males and females, ranging from less than one week to over three weeks old. None had received phototherapy within the preceding 24 hours.
Results
We found a strong correlation between the app’s measurements and TSB levels, with the SCBxy model achieving a correlation of r = 0.75 (p<0.01) after ambient subtraction.
Sensitivity and Specificity
Using a decision threshold of 190 μmol/L, the sensitivity was 100% and specificity was 61% for detecting TSB >250 μmol/L. For TSB >205 μmol/L, the sensitivity was 92% and specificity was 67%.
Impact
Our pilot study demonstrated that our new neoSCB app, using ambient-subtracted scleral chromaticity, can reliably screen for neonatal jaundice. The app showed promise as a cost-effective, non-invasive alternative to traditional bilirubin measurement methods, especially useful in resource-limited settings.
Conclusion
The neoSCB app’s ability to accurately predict TSB levels through smartphone imaging of the sclera supports its potential as an accessible jaundice screening tool. Our findings indicate that the app could significantly improve early detection and management of neonatal jaundice, reducing unnecessary hospital referrals and interventions.
Related Publications
July 2017 – Screening for Neonatal Jaundice with a Smartphone