The use of traditional Euclidean geometry can present challenges for analysis of image characteristics, particular those of extremely complex biological structures, obtained by medical and scientific imaging modalities. Fractal geometry is a potentially complementary mathematical approach that enables efficient estimation of geometrical complexity, and the irregularity of shapes and patterns. This Review introduces the concept of fractals and fractal geometry, and describes how analysis of fractal (non-integer) dimension and associated measurements, such as lacunarity (texture), can be performed and applied to the analysis of cancer. The authors discuss how fractal analysis might provide information on many diverse biological structures relevant to the natural history of lung cancer, which might prove useful for the diagnosis and management of this disease.
- Frances E. Lennon
- Gianguido C. Cianci
- Ravi Salgia
