Ophthalmic information processing system, ophthalmic imaging device, and control method

Abstract

To provide an ophthalmologic information processing system, an ophthalmologic imaging device, and a control method for performing from capturing of an image of an eye to be examined to diagnosis support based on the image of the eye to be examined in a seamless manner.SOLUTION: An ophthalmologic information processing system (1) includes: an operation instruction part for giving an operation instruction to an ophthalmologic imaging device (20) as an operation object, which is communicably connected to the ophthalmologic imaging device (20) having an imaging part for capturing an image (21) of an eye to be examined and an operation control part capable of performing an operation on the capturing of an image (21) of an eye to be examined according to an input operation to the device and capable of performing the operation according to the instruction from an external device; an image acquisition part for acquiring the image (21) of the eye to be examined captured according to the instruction from the ophthalmologic imaging device (20); and a diagnosis support part for outputting diagnosis support information (31) for the image (21) of the eye to be examined with the acquired image (21) of the eye to be examined as an input.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an ophthalmic information processing system, an ophthalmic imaging device, and a control method for performing diagnostic support based on a fundus image of an eye to be examined.

Background Art

[0002] In recent years, the systematization in the field of ophthalmology has been progressing. Patent Document 1 discloses a terminal device that operates a plurality of ophthalmic devices. Further, Patent Document 2 discloses a technique for obtaining an automatic diagnosis result for each of a plurality of diseases in an eye to be examined by inputting an ophthalmic image into a mathematical model trained by a machine learning algorithm.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Patent Document 2

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] However, for ophthalmic medical personnel and the like, there may be a feeling of annoyance when using an ophthalmic imaging device and an image diagnostic device. For example, it may be necessary to use dedicated software attached to each of these devices, or it may be necessary to perform separate data registration work for each of these devices. Further, when newly introducing an image diagnostic device, it may be necessary to introduce an ophthalmic imaging device adapted to the specifications of the image diagnostic device. This can lead to an increase in human, time, and financial costs in ophthalmic medical-related facilities.

[0005] One aspect of the present disclosure aims to realize an ophthalmic information processing system, an ophthalmic imaging device, and a control method that seamlessly perform from the imaging of a fundus image of an eye to be examined to diagnostic support based on the fundus image. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] To solve the aforementioned problems, an ophthalmic information processing system according to one aspect of the present disclosure is communicated with an ophthalmic imaging device which includes an imaging unit for capturing images of the eye to be examined and an operation control unit capable of executing operations related to capturing the images of the eye to be examined according to input operations to the device and also capable of executing the operations according to instructions from an external device, and includes an operation instruction unit that instructs the ophthalmic imaging device to perform the operations, an image acquisition unit that acquires images of the eye to be examined captured according to the instructions from the ophthalmic imaging device, and a diagnostic support unit that takes the acquired images of the eye to be examined as input and outputs diagnostic support information for the images of the eye to be examined, wherein the operation instruction unit communicates with the ophthalmic imaging device at least one of the following: starting the imaging sequence, stopping the imaging sequence, switching between the left and right eye to be examined, optimizing the imaging unit, alignment, and capturing. The aforementioned operation is instructed to satisfy the specifications of an API (Application Programming Interface) or SDK (Software Development Kit), which serves as a software interface for instructing the operation. [Effects of the Invention]

[0009] According to this disclosure, it is possible to realize an ophthalmic information processing system, an ophthalmic imaging device, and a control method that seamlessly perform everything from capturing images of the eye being examined to providing diagnostic support based on those images. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0010] [Figure 1] This is a schematic diagram showing an example configuration of an ophthalmic information processing system and its peripheral devices. [Figure 2] This is a schematic diagram showing an example of the layout of an ophthalmic information processing system and its peripheral devices. [Figure 3] This is a schematic diagram showing an example of the layout of an ophthalmic information processing system and its peripheral devices. [Figure 4] This is a block diagram showing the main components of an ophthalmic information processing system and an ophthalmic imaging device. [Figure 5] This figure shows an example of the data structure of a patient information database. [Figure 6] This figure shows an example of a data structure for diagnostic support information with identification information. [Figure 7] This figure shows an example of a report. [Figure 8] This figure shows an example of a data structure for eye images with identification information. [Figure 9] This sequence diagram shows an example of the processing flow from capturing images of the patient's eye using an ophthalmic imaging device operating in remote mode to obtaining a report. [Figure 10] This sequence diagram shows an example of the processing flow from obtaining an eye image taken with an ophthalmic imaging device operating in local mode to obtaining a report. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0011] [Embodiment] Hereinafter, one embodiment of this disclosure will be described in detail. Figure 1 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of the ophthalmic information processing system 1 and its peripheral devices according to this embodiment.

[0012] <Overview of Ophthalmic Information Processing System 1> In general terms, the ophthalmic information processing system 1 is a system for obtaining diagnostic support information 31 and 33 based on the eye images 21 taken by the ophthalmic imaging device 20. It is assumed that the company that designs, develops, or provides the ophthalmic imaging device 20 (hereinafter referred to as the "ophthalmic imaging device company" or "first company") and the company that designs, develops, or provides the ophthalmic information processing system 1 (hereinafter referred to as the "ophthalmic information processing system company" or "second company") are different entities.

[0013] The ophthalmic imaging device 20 is a device equipped with an imaging unit (camera) for capturing images 21 of the subject's eye and a function for performing operations related to capturing the images 21 of the eye (hereinafter referred to as "imaging-related operations"). Typical examples of imaging-related operations include, but are not limited to, at least one of the following: starting the imaging sequence, stopping the imaging sequence, switching between the left and right eye, optimizing the imaging unit, alignment (adjusting the position of the device relative to the eye), capture, transferring imaging data, initial operations associated with patient switching, and transitioning to an imaging standby state. Optimization of the imaging unit may include, for example, adjusting the focus or sensitivity. Sensitivity adjustment may allow adjustment of light intensity, gain, or exposure time. Transitioning to an imaging standby state is, for example, switching the ophthalmic imaging device 20 to power-saving mode after imaging is complete and there is no next patient.

[0014] The ophthalmic imaging device 20 may be equipped with a so-called automatic alignment function. In this case, the ophthalmic imaging device 20 may further include an alignment detection unit (not shown) and a drive unit (not shown). For example, the alignment detection unit may detect the positional relationship between the eye under examination and the imaging unit as an alignment state. The drive unit may drive the imaging unit in the XYZ direction relative to the eye under examination. The drive unit is controlled based on the alignment state detection result. As a result, the eye under examination and the imaging unit are adjusted to a predetermined positional relationship suitable for imaging. Furthermore, the ophthalmic imaging device 20 may automatically image the eye under examination after the automatic alignment is completed. Such an imaging sequence including automatic alignment and automatic imaging may be performed in either or both of the local mode and / or remote mode, as described later.

[0015] The examined eye image 21 is not limited in type as long as it is an image showing part or all of the examined eye. For example, it may be a fundus image, an anterior segment image, a corneal endothelial cell image, a gonioscope image, etc. That is, the ophthalmic imaging device 20 may be, for example, a fundus camera, an optical coherence tomography (OCT) device, a scanning laser ophthalmoscope (SLO), an anterior segment image analysis device, a corneal endothelial cell imaging device, a gonioscope imaging device, an automatic slit lamp imaging device, etc. Also, the type of the examined eye image based on the imaging method is not limited either. For example, it may be an SLO image, a 2D OCT image, a 3D OCT image, a Topo image, a slit lamp image, etc.

[0016] The ophthalmic imaging device 20 has at least an operation mode (hereinafter referred to as the "remote mode") in which it executes imaging-related operations according to an instruction from an external device (typically, the ophthalmic information processing system 1). When the ophthalmic imaging device 20 is in the remote mode, an operator does not have to be present beside the ophthalmic imaging device 20. The ophthalmic imaging device 20 does not have to request an input of subject information including the identification information 24 of the subject when in the remote mode. The ophthalmic imaging device 20 transmits the captured examined eye image 21 to an external device (typically, the ophthalmic information processing system 1) when in the remote mode.

[0017] In addition to the remote mode, the ophthalmic imaging device 20 may have an operation mode (hereinafter referred to as the "local mode") in which it executes imaging-related operations according to an input operation to itself without being remotely controlled (i.e., stand-alone). The ophthalmic imaging device 20 requests an input of subject information including the identification information 24 when in the local mode. The ophthalmic imaging device 20 may or may not transmit the captured examined eye image 22 to an external device (typically, the ophthalmic information processing system 1) when in the local mode. The examined eye image 22 is the one in which the examined eye image 21 and the identification information 24 of the subject are associated.

[0018] Hereinafter, the ophthalmic imaging apparatus 20 will be described as having a remote mode and a local mode, and being switchable between the two. That is, the ophthalmic imaging apparatus 20 can execute imaging-related operations according to an input operation to the apparatus itself, and can also execute imaging-related operations according to an instruction from an external device. If an ophthalmic imaging apparatus 20 equipped with both modes is manufactured, it is not necessary to divide the product lineup of the ophthalmic imaging apparatus 20.

[0019] Typically, as shown in FIG. 1, the ophthalmic information processing system 1 includes at least an ophthalmic information processing device 10 and a diagnostic support system 30. The business operator who designs, develops, or provides the ophthalmic information processing device 10 and the business operator who designs, develops, or provides the diagnostic support system 30 may be the same or different. That is, the ophthalmic information processing system business operator may be composed of a plurality of business operators. In addition, each function of the ophthalmic information processing device 10 and the diagnostic support system 30 may be integrated and implemented in one information processing device, or may be distributed and implemented in two or more information processing devices. For example, the ophthalmic information processing device 10 may also have the function of the diagnostic support system 30. Also, for example, the functions of the diagnostic support system 30 may be distributed among a plurality of medical-related facilities.

[0020] The ophthalmic information processing device 10 is connected to one or more ophthalmic imaging devices 20 in a communicative manner. The ophthalmic information processing device 10 gives instructions to each of the ophthalmic imaging devices 20 operating in remote mode. Specifically, the ophthalmic information processing device 10 instructs each of the ophthalmic imaging devices 20 operating in remote mode to perform imaging-related operations and acquires the eye image 21 taken by the instructed ophthalmic imaging device 20 from the ophthalmic imaging device 20. At this time, one of the features of the ophthalmic information processing system 1 is that a dedicated software interface provided by the ophthalmic imaging device provider is used for communication with the ophthalmic imaging device 20. The form of the software interface is not limited and is typically an API (Application Programming Interface) or a similar command, etc. The software interface may be provided as an SDK (Software Development Kit) that includes an API or a similar command, etc. By utilizing a dedicated software interface, the design and development of software required for communication with the ophthalmic imaging device 20 can be realized simply and at low cost, and it is extremely useful because it can be implemented with a high degree of freedom, less constrained by the specifications and environment of the ophthalmic imaging device 20. For example, for an ophthalmic information processing system operator, it becomes possible to directly control the ophthalmic imaging device 20, enabling the optimization design of the overall operation, including the ophthalmic information processing system 1, and increasing the degree of freedom in the design and development of the operating interface, etc. It is even more suitably useful when coordinating with multiple ophthalmic imaging devices 20 with different specifications, etc. Conventional control software used to control ophthalmic imaging devices is usually only installed and used, and cannot be conveniently modified, making it difficult to perform the kind of highly flexible design and development described above.

[0021] The ophthalmic information processing device 10 transmits the images 21 and 22 of the eye being examined, acquired from the ophthalmic imaging device 20, to a diagnostic support system 30 that is connected via a communication interface.

[0022] The diagnostic support system 30 is a system for providing diagnostic support. The diagnostic support system 30 takes an eye image 21 acquired from the ophthalmic information processing device 10 as input and outputs diagnostic support information 31 for the eye image 21. The diagnostic support system 30 also takes an eye image 22 acquired from the ophthalmic information processing device 10 as input and outputs diagnostic support information 33 for the eye image 22. The entity that implements the diagnostic support in the diagnostic support system 30 is typically one or more computers, but may also include one or more physicians. The processing content for the eye images 21 and 22 is not limited and may include image analysis processing, processing using artificial intelligence, or a combination of these.

[0023] The diagnostic support system 30 transmits the outputted diagnostic support information 31 and 33 to the ophthalmic information processing device 10.

[0024] The ophthalmic information processing device 10 may generate diagnostic support information 32 by associating diagnostic support information 31 obtained from the diagnostic support system 30 with the identification information 54 of the subject whose eye image 21, which is the source of the diagnostic support information 31, was taken. Here, the source of the identification information 54 is not the ophthalmic imaging device 20. In other words, one of the features of the ophthalmic information processing system 1 is that it generates diagnostic support information 32 with the identification information 54 associated with it, without depending on the ophthalmic imaging device 20. As a result, it is not necessary to register and manage the subject's identification information in the ophthalmic imaging device 20, nor is it necessary to link the identification information between the ophthalmic imaging device 20 and the ophthalmic information processing system 1. Therefore, the complexity of registering and managing the subject's identification information can be reduced. Conventionally, in addition to the need to register the subject's identification information in the ophthalmic imaging device, it was also common to register the subject's identification information for the system that handles the eye images taken by the ophthalmic imaging device, making data registration and management complicated.

[0025] The source of the identification information 54 is not limited, but one example is an electronic medical record system 50 that is communicatively connected to the ophthalmic information processing device 10. The electronic medical record system 50 is a system that includes a database for managing electronic medical records containing patient information. The operational management configuration of the electronic medical record system 50 may differ from that of the ophthalmic information processing system 1.

[0026] The ophthalmic information processing device 10 may generate a report 41 containing diagnostic support information 32 or diagnostic support information 33. The report 41 may include images of the eye being examined 21 and 22, etc. The ophthalmic information processing device 10 may transmit the generated report 41 to the electronic medical record system 50 via the communication network N. The report 41 may be stored in the electronic medical record system 50, or it may be transmitted from the electronic medical record system 50 directly or via the ophthalmic information processing system 1 to the output device 40. Typical examples of the output device 40 include a personal computer (PC) used by medical personnel or patients, an information processing terminal such as a tablet, a printer, etc., but it is not limited to these as long as it is capable of displaying, printing, or otherwise outputting the report 41.

[0027] The ophthalmic information processing system 1 has the functions outlined above. Therefore, the ophthalmic information processing system 1 is a system that differs significantly in functionality from conventional information processing terminals equipped with control software used to control ophthalmic imaging equipment and an image viewer for viewing images of the eye taken by the ophthalmic imaging equipment. The ophthalmic information processing system 1 allows for seamless operation from the acquisition of images of the eye to diagnostic support based on those images, thereby reducing the workload of ophthalmic medical professionals.

[0028] Furthermore, as described above, the ophthalmic information processing system 1 provided by the ophthalmic information processing system provider utilizes a dedicated software interface provided by the ophthalmic imaging device provider when communicating with the ophthalmic imaging device 20 provided by the ophthalmic imaging device provider. For example, the ophthalmic information processing system 1 generates instructions in accordance with the specifications of the software interface and provides these instructions to the ophthalmic imaging device 20. The ophthalmic imaging device 20 then executes imaging-related operations based on these instructions. Therefore, the ophthalmic information processing system 1 provided by the ophthalmic information processing system provider can perform a series of processes, from capturing an image of the eye under examination 21 by the ophthalmic imaging device 20 to obtaining diagnostic support information 31 and 33 based on the image of the eye under examination 21, without being constrained by other specifications, environment, etc., on the ophthalmic imaging device 20 provided by the ophthalmic imaging device provider. In addition, the ophthalmic imaging device provider can operate the ophthalmic imaging device 20 based on instructions from the ophthalmic information processing system 1 without having to customize the ophthalmic imaging device 20 to match the specifications of the ophthalmic information processing system 1 provided by the ophthalmic information processing system provider.

[0029] <Example of device layout> Examples of the placement of each device will be explained using Figures 2 and 3. A typical location for the ophthalmic information processing device 10 is a medical facility M, as shown in Figure 2. A typical medical facility M is a hospital. The medical facility M may also be a clinic, testing facility, pharmacy, drug store, or ophthalmology-related store. The ophthalmic information processing device 10 is connected to a communication network N, including a LAN (Local Area Network), installed in the medical facility M, for example.

[0030] A typical location for the diagnostic support system 30 is a different facility from the medical facility M where the ophthalmic information processing device 10 is located, as shown in Figure 2. In this case, the ophthalmic information processing device 10 is connected to the diagnostic support system 30 via, for example, a VPN (Virtual Private Network) on the internet. The diagnostic support system 30 may be a system composed of servers built on the cloud. Alternatively, the diagnostic support system 30 may be located at the medical facility M where the ophthalmic information processing device 10 is located. In this case, the ophthalmic information processing device 10 and the diagnostic support system 30 are connected via a LAN installed at the medical facility M.

[0031] A typical location for the output device 40 is the medical facility M where the ophthalmic information processing device 10 is located, as shown in Figure 2. In this case, the output device 40 is connected to a communication network N, including a LAN, installed in the medical facility M. Alternatively, the output device 40 may be located in a facility different from the medical facility M where the ophthalmic information processing device 10 is located. In this case, the communication network N to which the output device 40 is connected may include a VPN on the internet. Furthermore, the output device 40 may be portable and its location may not be fixed.

[0032] A typical location for the electronic medical record system 50 is a medical facility M where the ophthalmic information processing device 10 is located. In this case, the electronic medical record system 50 is connected to a communication network N, including a LAN, installed in the medical facility M.

[0033] Various locations are possible for the placement of the ophthalmic imaging device 20. One typical example of the placement of the ophthalmic imaging device 20 is a medical facility M, as shown in Figure 2. The ophthalmic imaging device 20 placed in medical facility M is connected to the ophthalmic information processing device 10 via a LAN installed in medical facility M. Multiple ophthalmic information processing devices 10 may be placed in medical facility M. In the example shown in Figure 2, the acquisition of eye images 21 and 22, the acquisition of diagnostic support information 31 and 33, and the output of report 41 are performed within medical facility M. The operator of the ophthalmic imaging device 20, the ophthalmic information processing device 10, and the output device 40 may be the same person.

[0034] A second typical location for the ophthalmic imaging device 20 is a medical facility L different from medical facility M, as shown in Figure 3. Medical facility L may be a clinic, testing facility, pharmacy, drugstore, or ophthalmology-related store. The ophthalmic imaging device 20 located in medical facility L is connected to the ophthalmic information processing device 10 via, for example, a VPN over the internet. As shown in Figure 3, each of the multiple ophthalmic imaging devices 20 may be located in a different medical facility L. In the example shown in Figure 3, each of the subject eye images 21 and 22 taken at one or more medical facilities L is collected at one medical facility M, where diagnostic support information 31 and 33 is acquired and report 41 is output. In the example shown in Figure 3, the operator of the ophthalmic imaging device 20 and the operators of the ophthalmic information processing device 10 and output device 40 are usually different. Since the ophthalmic imaging devices 20 located in each of the medical facilities L are expected to have different specifications and environments, in the example arrangement shown in Figure 3, an ophthalmic information processing system 1 that utilizes a dedicated software interface for communication with the ophthalmic imaging devices 20 is preferred.

[0035] <Key components of Ophthalmic Information Processing System 1> Figure 4 is a block diagram showing the main components of the ophthalmic information processing system 1 and the ophthalmic imaging device 20. As described above, the ophthalmic information processing system 1 typically comprises an ophthalmic information processing device 10 and a diagnostic support system 30.

[0036] (Ophthalmic information processing device 10) The ophthalmic information processing device 10 comprises an input unit 107, a control unit 100, and a storage unit 110.

[0037] The input unit 107 is a device that receives input operations for the ophthalmic information processing device 10. Examples of input units 107 include keyboards, mice, touch panels, and microphones. If the input unit 107 is a touch panel, it may also have an information display function. The input unit 107 outputs a signal to the control unit 100 corresponding to the received input operation.

[0038] The memory unit 110 is a memory that stores various data and software used by the ophthalmic information processing device 10. The memory unit 110 may also be a storage device connected to the ophthalmic information processing device 10.

[0039] The memory unit 110 may include an image memory unit 1101, a diagnostic support information memory unit 1102, and a report memory unit 1103. The image memory unit 1101 stores the images of the eye being examined 21 and 22. The diagnostic support information memory unit 1102 stores the diagnostic support information 31 and 33. The report memory unit 1103 stores the report 41.

[0040] The control unit 100 comprehensively controls each function of the ophthalmic information processing device 10. The control unit 100 is, for example, a processor such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit). The control unit 100 reads programs for realizing each function from the storage unit 110 and loads them into RAM (Random Access Memory). As a result of this loading, the control unit 100 includes at least a communication control unit 101. The communication control unit 101 includes an operation instruction unit 1011, an image acquisition unit 1012, and a software interface (abbreviated as "software IF") 1013. The control unit 100 may also further include an operation target selection unit 103, a patient information acquisition unit 104, a mapping unit 105, and a report generation unit 106.

[0041] The programs for implementing the functions of the operation instruction unit 1011, the image acquisition unit 1012, the patient information acquisition unit 104, the mapping unit 105, and the report generation unit 106 are provided by the ophthalmic information processing system provider. On the other hand, the software IF1013 is provided to the ophthalmic information processing system provider either directly from the ophthalmic imaging equipment provider or through an intermediary.

[0042] The operation target selection unit 103 selects the ophthalmic imaging device 20 to be operated from among multiple ophthalmic imaging devices 20. The ophthalmic imaging device 20 to be operated is an ophthalmic imaging device 20 that operates in remote mode. If there is only one predetermined ophthalmic imaging device 20 to be operated, selection by the operation target selection unit 103 is unnecessary. The operation target selection unit 103 may also select the ophthalmic imaging device 20 to be operated in response to the input operation received by the input unit 107. Alternatively, the operation target selection unit 103 may automatically select the ophthalmic imaging device 20 to be operated based on predetermined rules.

[0043] The operation instruction unit 1011 instructs the ophthalmic imaging device 20 to perform imaging-related operations. Preferably, these instructions conform to the specifications of the software IF1013 (i.e., the instructions are made via the software IF1013). Specifically, it is preferable that the operation instruction unit 1011 transmits a command 11 that conforms to the specifications of the software IF1013 to cause the ophthalmic imaging device 20 to perform imaging-related operations.

[0044] Software IF1013 is a set of dedicated software interfaces, typically a set of APIs, for instructing the ophthalmic imaging device 20 on imaging-related operations and acquiring the images of the examined eye 21 and 22. For example, Software IF1013 is distributed or downloaded from a server (not shown) providing Software IF1013 to the ophthalmic information processing device 10 and installed on the ophthalmic information processing device 10. Alternatively, for example, Software IF1013 may be read from a recording medium such as a USB (Universal Serial Bus) memory and installed on the ophthalmic information processing device 10. Thus, the method of providing Software IF1013 is not limited.

[0045] The timing at which the operation instruction unit 1011 instructs the ophthalmic imaging device 20 to perform imaging-related operations is not limited. For example, the timing may be immediately after the ophthalmic imaging device 20 is selected by the operation target selection unit 103, or it may be at a timing corresponding to an input operation received by the input unit 107, or it may be at a timing based on a predetermined rule.

[0046] The image acquisition unit 1012 acquires the eye image 21 taken by the ophthalmic imaging device 20, which operates in remote mode, according to the instructions of the operation instruction unit 1011. Preferably, the image acquisition unit 1012 acquires the eye image 21 via the software IF 1013.

[0047] The image acquisition unit 1012 transmits the eye image 21 acquired from the ophthalmic imaging device 20 to the diagnostic support system 30. The timing of the transmission of the eye image 21 is not limited; for example, it may be immediately after the image acquisition unit 1012 acquires the eye image 21, or it may be at a timing corresponding to an input operation received by the input unit 107, or it may be at a timing based on a predetermined rule.

[0048] The image acquisition unit 1012 may store the eye image 21 acquired from the ophthalmic imaging device 20 in the image storage unit 1101. The timing of storing the eye image 21 is not limited. The storage timing may be, for example, immediately after the image acquisition unit 1012 acquires the eye image 21, before the image acquisition unit 1012 transmits the eye image 21 to the diagnostic support system 30, after the image acquisition unit 1012 transmits the eye image 21 to the diagnostic support system 30, or at a timing based on a predetermined rule.

[0049] The image acquisition unit 1012 may acquire the eye image 22 taken by the ophthalmic imaging device 20 operating in local mode. In this case as well, it is preferable that the image acquisition unit 1012 acquires the eye image 22 via the software IF 1013. The image acquisition unit 1012 may transmit the acquired eye image 22 to the diagnostic support system 30. The timing of transmitting the eye image 22 is not limited. The transmission timing may be, for example, immediately after the image acquisition unit 1012 acquires the eye image 22, or it may be at a timing corresponding to an input operation received by the input unit 107, or it may be at a timing based on a predetermined rule.

[0050] The image acquisition unit 1012 may store the acquired eye image 22 in the image storage unit 1101. The timing of storing the eye image 22 is not limited. The storage timing may be, for example, immediately after the image acquisition unit 1012 acquires the eye image 22, before the image acquisition unit 1012 transmits the eye image 22 to the diagnostic support system 30, after the image acquisition unit 1012 transmits the eye image 22 to the diagnostic support system 30, or at a timing based on a predetermined rule.

[0051] The subject information acquisition unit 104 acquires subject information 53, which includes at least identification information 54 of the subject whose eye image 21 is being taken. The subject information acquisition unit 104 may acquire the subject information 53 in response to an input operation received by the input unit 107. The timing of acquiring the subject information 53 is not limited. The acquisition timing may be, for example, before the image acquisition unit 1012 transmits the eye image 21 to the diagnostic support system 30, after the image acquisition unit 1012 transmits the eye image 21 to the diagnostic support system 30, or at a timing corresponding to an input operation received by the input unit 107.

[0052] One example of a source for obtaining subject information 53 is the patient information database 501 contained within the electronic medical record system 50. The patient information database 501 is a database that records patient information.

[0053] Figure 5 shows an example of the data structure of the patient information database 501. As shown in Figure 5, the patient information database 501 may include information such as name, age, gender, medical history, date of previous examination, and visit history as subject information 53, with the patient ID as the key, as identification information 54. In addition, the patient information database 501 may also include information such as past eye images 21 and 22, diagnostic support information 31 and 33, and findings. The subject information acquisition unit 104 may acquire the patient ID as identification information 54, as well as the aforementioned information associated with the patient ID, from the patient information database 501.

[0054] The mapping unit 105 acquires diagnostic support information 31 for the subject's eye image 21 from the diagnostic support system 30. The mapping unit 105 associates the acquired diagnostic support information 31 with the subject information 53 of the subject from whom the eye image 21 that forms the basis of the diagnostic support information 31 was taken, which is the subject information 53 (including at least identification information 54) acquired by the subject information acquisition unit 104, thereby generating diagnostic support information 32 with identification information. The timing of the generation of the diagnostic support information 32 is not limited; for example, it may be immediately after acquiring both the diagnostic support information 31 and the subject information 53, or it may be at a timing corresponding to the input operation received by the input unit 107.

[0055] As described above, the identification information 54 is obtained, for example, from the patient information database 501 of the electronic medical record system 50. In other words, the ophthalmic information processing system 1 can generate diagnostic support information 32 associated with the identification information 54 without relying on the ophthalmic imaging device 20. Therefore, it is not necessary to register and manage the patient's identification information in the ophthalmic imaging device 20, nor is it necessary to link identification information between the ophthalmic imaging device 20 and the ophthalmic information processing system 1. For the reasons described above, by using the ophthalmic information processing system 1, the complexity of registering and managing the patient's identification information can be reduced.

[0056] Figure 6 shows an example of the data structure of diagnostic support information 32 with identification information. In the example shown in Figure 6, the diagnostic support information 31 is represented in a single folder. It should be understood that there are one or more files (not shown) related to the diagnostic support information 31 within this folder. In the example shown in Figure 6, only the identification information 54 is associated with the diagnostic support information 31, but this is not limited to this. For example, the association unit 105 may generate the diagnostic support information 32 by associating the diagnostic support information 31 with the information obtained by the subject information acquisition unit 104 from the patient information database 501 (name, age, gender, medical history, date of previous examination, visit history, past eye images 21 and 22, findings, etc.) in addition to the identification information 54.

[0057] The mapping unit 105 may store the diagnostic support information 31 and 32 in the diagnostic support information storage unit 1102. The mapping unit 105 may also store the diagnostic support information 31 and 32 in the patient information database 501.

[0058] The report generation unit 106 generates a report 41 that includes diagnostic support information 32. The report generation unit 106 may obtain the diagnostic support information 32 from the mapping unit 105 or read it from the diagnostic support information storage unit 1102.

[0059] Furthermore, the report generation unit 106 generates a report 41 that includes diagnostic support information 33 for the eye image 22. The report generation unit 106 may obtain the diagnostic support information 33 from the diagnostic support system 30 or read it from the diagnostic support information storage unit 1102.

[0060] The timing of report 41 generation is not limited; for example, it may occur immediately after the report generation unit 106 acquires the diagnostic support information 32 and 33, or it may occur at a timing corresponding to the input operation received by the input unit 107. The report generation unit 106 may store the generated report 41 in the report storage unit 1103. The report generation unit 106 may store the acquired diagnostic support information 32 and 33 in the diagnostic support information storage unit 1102.

[0061] The readers of report 41 may be medical professionals, test subjects, or both. Therefore, the report generation unit 106 may generate report 41 in a display format appropriate to the reader. For example, a report 41 intended for medical professionals may be highly detailed and use ophthalmological terminology. On the other hand, a report 41 intended for test subjects may be less detailed and may not use ophthalmological terminology. The report generation unit 106 may also determine the display format of report 41 according to the input operation received by the input unit 107.

[0062] The report generation unit 106 transmits the generated report 41 to the electronic medical record system 50 via the communication network N. The timing of transmission of the report 41 is not limited; for example, it may be immediately after the report generation unit 106 generates the report 41, or it may be at a timing corresponding to the input operation received by the input unit 107. The electronic medical record system 50 may transmit the report 41 directly or via the ophthalmology information processing system 1 to the output device 40. The destination output device 40 may be predetermined, determined according to the input operation received by the electronic medical record system 50, or determined according to the input operation received by the ophthalmology information processing system 1. The method of transmission to the output device 40 is not limited; for example, it may be transmitted using a file transfer system or attached to a general-purpose email. The file format of the report 41 is not limited; for example, it may be PDF (Portable Document Format).

[0063] The report generation unit 106 may directly transmit the generated report 41 to the output device 40. Alternatively, the report generation unit 106 may store the generated report 41 in the report storage unit 1103.

[0064] Figure 7 shows an example of a report 41. The report 41 shown in Figure 7 is an example that includes diagnostic support information 32. The report 41 includes, as an example, a subject information display section 411 and a diagnostic support information display section 412. The report 41 may also include, as an example, an image display section 413 and a findings display section 414.

[0065] The subject information display area 411 displays all or part of the subject information 53 associated with the diagnostic support information 32. The subject information display area 411 may also display, for example, identification information 54, name, gender, age, medical history, date of previous examination, and visit history. For example, if it is necessary to prevent the identification of the subject, the name may not be displayed.

[0066] The diagnostic support information display area 412 displays all or part of the text indicating the diagnostic support information contained in the diagnostic support information 32. Figure 7 shows an example of the symptoms and severity classification of diabetic retinopathy, with text such as "macular edema present" and "simple retinopathy" displayed as examples.

[0067] The image display area 413 may display, for example, the image of the eye being examined 21 (which may have been processed, such as highlighting abnormal areas) included in the diagnostic support information 32, and the image analysis results 35 of the image of the eye being examined 21. The image display area 413 may also display, for example, past images of the eye being examined 21 of the same subject, and the image analysis results of the images of the eye being examined 21. By displaying past images of the eye being examined 21, medical professionals and the subject can easily check the progression of symptoms.

[0068] The findings display section 414 is, for example, a section for medical professionals to add findings. The report 41 with added findings may be transmitted directly from the physician's information processing terminal or via the ophthalmology information processing system 1 to the patient's information processing terminal.

[0069] (Diagnostic support system 30) The diagnostic support system 30 includes a diagnostic support unit 301. The diagnostic support unit 301 takes an eye image 21 acquired from the ophthalmic information processing device 10 as input and outputs diagnostic support information 31 for the eye image 21. Similarly, the diagnostic support unit 301 takes an eye image 22 acquired from the ophthalmic information processing device 10 as input and outputs diagnostic support information 33 for the eye image 22. The processing content of the diagnostic support unit 301 may be image analysis or processing using artificial intelligence. When using artificial intelligence, the diagnostic support unit 302 may use a diagnostic model generated by machine learning the correlation between the eye image and the diagnostic support information.

[0070] The program to implement the functions of the diagnostic support unit 301 will be provided by the ophthalmology information processing system provider.

[0071] Diagnostic support information 31 and 33 may consist of one or more electronic files containing images, text, numerical data, or combinations thereof. Images included in diagnostic support information 31 and 33 may include, but are not limited to, the images of the examined eye 21 and 22 themselves, or images of the examined eye 21 and 22 that have been processed, such as highlighting abnormal areas. Text included in diagnostic support information 31 and 33 may include, but are not limited to, text representing image analysis results, text representing diagnostic support information, or text representing treatment methods. Specific examples of text included in diagnostic support information 31 and 33 may include, but are not limited to, disease names, symptoms, progression of symptoms, and medications.

[0072] For example, if the images of the eye being examined 21 and 22 are retinal images, and macular edema is detected through diagnostic support, the diagnostic support unit 301 may output diagnostic support information 31 and 33 that includes an image clearly indicating the location of the macular edema, and text such as "macular edema present" and "simple retinopathy." This makes it possible to create a report 41, for example, as shown in Figure 7.

[0073] <Main components of the ophthalmic imaging device 20> Returning to Figure 4, the main components of the ophthalmic imaging device 20 will be described. As shown in Figure 4, the ophthalmic imaging device 20 includes, for example, a control unit 200, an imaging unit 206, an input unit 207, and a storage unit 210.

[0074] The imaging unit 206 is a camera for capturing an image 21 of the subject's eye. The imaging unit 206 is controlled by the operation control unit 202, which will be described later. The imaging unit 206 may add EXIF ​​(Exchangeable Image File Format) information, such as the date and time of capture and location information, to the eye image 21.

[0075] The input unit 207 is a device that receives input operations for the ophthalmic imaging device 20. Typical examples of such input operations include operations to cause the ophthalmic imaging device 20, which is operating in local mode, to perform imaging-related operations, and operations to input or select patient information 23.

[0076] The input unit 207 may be, for example, a touch panel, buttons, or switches mounted on the ophthalmic imaging device 20, or it may be a mouse and keyboard of an information terminal device connected to the ophthalmic imaging device 20. If the input unit 207 is a touch panel, it may also have an information display function. The input unit 207 outputs a signal to the control unit 200 corresponding to the received input operation.

[0077] The memory unit 210 is a memory that stores various data and software used by the ophthalmic imaging device 20. The memory unit 210 may also be a storage device connected to the ophthalmic imaging device 20. The memory unit 210 may include an image storage unit 2101 and a patient information storage unit 2102. The image storage unit 2101 stores the patient's eye images 21 and 22. The patient information storage unit 2102 stores patient information 23, including the patient's identification information 24. Typical examples of information included in the patient information 23 are the identification information 24, name, date of birth, gender, etc. The coding system for the identification information 24 may be a different coding system from the patient ID managed by the electronic medical record system 50.

[0078] The control unit 200 comprehensively controls each function of the ophthalmic imaging device 20. The control unit 200 is, for example, a processor such as a CPU. The control unit 200 reads programs for realizing each function from the storage unit 210 and loads them into RAM. As a result of this loading, the control unit 200 includes a mode switching unit 201, an operation control unit 202, a patient information receiving unit 203, and a mapping unit 205.

[0079] The mode switching unit 201 switches the operating mode of the ophthalmic imaging device 20. Specifically, the mode switching unit 201 switches between local mode and remote mode. Typically, the mode switching unit 201 switches modes in response to input operations received by the input unit 207. The mode switching unit 201 may also switch modes in response to instructions from an external device, or it may switch modes according to predetermined rules.

[0080] The motion control unit 202 controls the imaging unit 206 and executes imaging-related operations. The motion control unit 202 switches the processing content between remote mode and local mode.

[0081] The processing of the operation control unit 202 in remote mode is as follows: The operation control unit 202 causes the imaging unit 206 to capture an image of the eye under examination 21 by executing imaging-related operations in accordance with instructions from the ophthalmic information processing system 1 (specifically, the ophthalmic information processing device 10). When a command is sent from the ophthalmic information processing device 10 via the software IF1013, the operation control unit 202 may receive the command and execute imaging-related operations in accordance with the content of the received command. The operation control unit 202 acquires the image of the eye under examination 21 captured by the imaging unit 206. The operation control unit 202 may add related information to the acquired image of the eye under examination 21. Related information may be, for example, the identification information of the imaging unit 206. The operation control unit 202 transmits the acquired image of the eye under examination 21 to the ophthalmic information processing system 1 (specifically, the ophthalmic information processing device 10). Note that the image of the eye under examination 21 is not associated with the identification information of the subject. The transmitted eye image 21 is acquired by the image acquisition unit 1012 via the software IF1013 in the ophthalmic information processing device 10. The operation control unit 202 may store the eye image 21 in the image storage unit 2101. The eye image 21 stored in the image storage unit 2101 may be output (displayed, printed, etc.) to an output device (not shown).

[0082] The processing of the operation control unit 202 in local mode is as follows: The operation control unit 202 causes the imaging unit 206 to capture an eye image 21 by executing imaging-related operations according to the input operation from the input unit 207. The operation control unit 202 acquires the eye image 21 captured by the imaging unit 206. The operation control unit 202 may add related information to the acquired eye image 21. Related information may be, for example, the identification information of the imaging unit 206. The operation control unit 202 transmits the eye image 21 captured by the imaging unit 206 to the mapping unit 205. The operation control unit 202 may acquire from the mapping unit 205 an eye image 22 to which subject information 23, including identification information 24, has been associated, which was generated by the mapping unit 205 based on the eye image 21. The operation control unit 202 may transmit the acquired eye image 22 to the ophthalmology information processing system 1 (specifically, the ophthalmology information processing device 10). The operation control unit 202 may store the eye image 22 in the image storage unit 2101. The eye image 22 stored in the image storage unit 2101 may be output (displayed, printed, etc.) to an output device (not shown).

[0083] When in local mode, the subject information receiving unit 203 accepts the input or selection of subject information 23 according to the input operation from the input unit 207. The person performing the input operation may be the subject or a medical professional. The subject information 23 may be newly entered or read and selected from the subject information storage unit 2102. The subject information 23 includes at least the subject's identification information 24. The identification information 24 may be newly issued or read and selected from the subject information storage unit 2102.

[0084] The subject information receiving unit 203 may operate in the same way as in local mode when in remote mode, or it may not accept input or selection of subject information 23. In the latter case, the subject information receiving unit 203 may display a message indicating that it does not accept input or selection of subject information 23 on the input unit 207 which also has a display function, or on a display unit not shown.

[0085] The motion control unit 202 may, in remote mode, execute imaging-related operations regardless of whether or not subject information 23 has been input. That is, even if the subject information receiving unit 203 has received input or selection of subject information 23 in remote mode, the motion control unit 202 may execute imaging-related operations instructed in remote mode.

[0086] In local mode, the mapping unit 205 acquires the eye image 21 captured by the imaging unit 206 from the operation control unit 202, and generates the eye image 22 by associating the acquired eye image 21 with the subject information 23, which includes at least the identification information 24, received by the subject information receiving unit 203. Figure 8 shows an example of the data structure of the eye image 22 with identification information. In the example shown in Figure 8, the eye image 21 is represented in a single folder. It should be understood that there is one or more files (not shown) related to the eye image 21 in this folder. In the example shown in Figure 8, only the identification information 24 is associated with the eye image 21, but this is not limited to this. For example, the mapping unit 205 may generate the eye image 22 by associating subject information 23 (such as name) other than the identification information 24 with the eye image 21 in addition to the identification information 24.

[0087] The mapping unit 205 may operate in the same way as in local mode when in remote mode, or it may stop operating.

[0088] The matching unit 205 may store the eye image 22 in the image storage unit 2101.

[0089] <Processing flow> Figure 9 is a sequence diagram showing an example of the processing flow from obtaining a report 41 based on an eye image 21 taken by an ophthalmic imaging device 20 operating in remote mode. Each process in the ophthalmic information processing system 1 is executed and controlled by one or more information processing devices. At least one such information processing device that is communicatively connected to the ophthalmic imaging device 20 is sufficient.

[0090] In the ophthalmic imaging device 20, the mode switching unit 201 switches to remote mode in response to input operations received by the input unit 207 (step S1). Step S1 only needs to be performed no later than the execution of step S3.

[0091] In the ophthalmic information processing device 10, the target of operation selection unit 103 selects the ophthalmic imaging device 20 to be operated on (step S2). The operation instruction unit 1011 instructs the ophthalmic imaging device 20 selected in step S2 to perform imaging-related operations via the software IF 1013 (step S3, instruction step).

[0092] In the ophthalmic imaging device 20, the motion control unit 202 executes the imaging-related operations instructed in step S3 (step S4). The motion control unit 202 transmits the image of the eye under examination 21 captured by the imaging unit 206 as a result of the imaging-related operations performed in step S4 to the ophthalmic information processing device 10 (step S5).

[0093] In the ophthalmic information processing device 10, the image acquisition unit 1012 acquires the eye image 21 transmitted in step S5 from the ophthalmic imaging device 20 via the software IF 1013 (step S6, acquisition process). In other words, the image acquisition unit 1012 acquires the eye image 21 taken according to the instructions in step S3. The image acquisition unit 1012 transmits the eye image 21 acquired in step S6 to the diagnostic support system 30 (step S7).

[0094] In the diagnostic support system 30, the diagnostic support unit 301 receives the eye image 21 acquired in step S6 and transmitted in step S7, takes the received eye image 21 as input, and outputs diagnostic support information 31 for the eye image 21 (step S8, diagnostic support process).

[0095] In the ophthalmic information processing device 10, the patient information acquisition unit 104 acquires the patient information 53 of the patient whose eye image 21 acquired in step S6 was taken, from the electronic medical record system 50 (step S9). Note that step S9 may be performed before step S7.

[0096] The matching unit 105 generates diagnostic support information 32 by matching the diagnostic support information 31 output in step S8 with the identification information 54 included in the subject information 53 acquired in step S9 (step S10). The report generation unit 106 generates a report 41 containing the diagnostic support information 32 generated in step S10 and transmits the generated report 41 to the electronic medical record system 50 (step S11).

[0097] The electronic medical record system 50 acquires the report 41 sent in step S11 (step S12) and sends the acquired report 41 to the output device 40 (step S13). The output device 40 acquires the report 41 sent in step S13 and outputs the report 41 (step S14).

[0098] Following the above procedure, the ophthalmic information processing system 1 acquires the eye image 21 taken by the ophthalmic imaging device 20 operating in remote mode, and outputs diagnostic support information 31 for the acquired eye image 21. The ophthalmic information processing system 1 also generates a report 41 containing the diagnostic support information 32 and sends the report 41 to the electronic medical record system 50. The electronic medical record system 50 then sends the report 41 to the output device 40. This allows the patient or medical professional who uses the output device 40 to view the report 41.

[0099] Furthermore, since the software IF1013 is used for communication with the ophthalmic imaging device 20, the ophthalmic information processing system provider can easily and inexpensively design and develop the software required for communication with the ophthalmic imaging device 20, and can do so with a high degree of flexibility, as it is less constrained by the specifications and environment of the ophthalmic imaging device 20.

[0100] Furthermore, the ophthalmic information processing system 1 can generate diagnostic support information 32 associated with identification information 54 without relying on the ophthalmic imaging device 20. Therefore, it is not necessary to register and manage the patient's identification information in the ophthalmic imaging device 20, nor is it necessary to link identification information between the ophthalmic imaging device 20 and the ophthalmic information processing system 1. As described above, by using the ophthalmic information processing system 1, the complexity associated with registering and managing the patient's identification information can be reduced.

[0101] Figure 10 is a sequence diagram showing an example of the processing flow from obtaining a report 41 based on an eye image 22 taken by an ophthalmic imaging device 20 operating in local mode. Each process in the ophthalmic information processing system 1 is executed and controlled by one or more information processing devices. At least one such information processing device that is communicatively connected to the ophthalmic imaging device 20 is sufficient.

[0102] In the ophthalmic imaging device 20, the mode switching unit 201 switches to local mode according to the input operation received by the input unit 207 (step S21). The operation control unit 202 executes imaging-related operations according to the input operation from the input unit 207 (step S22). The patient information receiving unit 203 receives input or selection of patient information 23, which includes at least identification information 24, according to the input operation from the input unit 207 (step S23). Step S23 may be executed before step S22. The mapping unit 205 generates an eye image 22 based on the eye image 21 taken by the imaging unit 206 by the imaging-related operations executed in step S22 and the patient information 23 received in step S23 (step S24). The operation control unit 202 transmits the eye image 22 generated in step S24 to the ophthalmic information processing device 10 (step S25).

[0103] In the ophthalmic information processing device 10, the image acquisition unit 1012 acquires the eye image 22 transmitted in step S25 via the software IF 1013 (step S26). The image acquisition unit 1012 transmits the eye image 22 acquired in step S26 to the diagnostic support system 30 (step S27).

[0104] In the diagnostic support system 30, the diagnostic support unit 301 receives the eye image 22 transmitted in step S27, takes the received eye image 22 as input, and outputs diagnostic support information 33 for the eye image 22 (step S28).

[0105] The report generation unit 106 generates a report 41 containing the diagnostic support information 33 output in step S28, and sends the generated report 41 to the electronic medical record system 50 (step S29).

[0106] The electronic medical record system 50 acquires the report 41 sent in step S29 (step S30) and sends the acquired report 41 to the output device 40 (step S31). The output device 40 acquires the report 41 sent in step S31 and outputs the report 41 (step S32).

[0107] Following the above procedure, the ophthalmic information processing system 1 acquires the eye image 22 taken by the ophthalmic imaging device 20 operating in local mode, and outputs diagnostic support information 33 for the acquired eye image 22. The ophthalmic information processing system 1 also generates a report 41 containing the diagnostic support information 33 and sends the report 41 to the electronic medical record system 50. The electronic medical record system 50 then sends the report 41 to the output device 40. As a result, the patient or medical professional who uses the output device 40 can view the report 41.

[0108] Thus, the ophthalmic information processing system 1 can also generate diagnostic support information 33 and reports 41 based on the eye images 22 taken by the ophthalmic imaging device 20 operating in local mode.

[0109] The ophthalmic information processing system 1 may be provided by an ophthalmic information processing system provider as a program for realizing each function of the ophthalmic information processing system 1. That is, the program for realizing each function of the operation instruction unit 1011 that executes the instruction process, the image acquisition unit 1012 that executes the acquisition process, and the diagnostic support unit 301 that executes the diagnostic support processing process may be provided by an ophthalmic information processing system provider. In the instruction process, instructions in accordance with the specifications of the software IF1013 are generated and given to the ophthalmic imaging device 20. The ophthalmic imaging device 20 executes imaging-related operations based on these instructions. Therefore, by using each function realized by the program provided by the ophthalmic information processing system provider, a series of processes from capturing an image of the eye under examination 21 by the ophthalmic imaging device 20 to obtaining diagnostic support information 31 and 33 based on the image of the eye under examination 21 can be carried out without being subject to other specifications, environment, etc. constraints on the ophthalmic imaging device 20 provided by the ophthalmic imaging device provider. Furthermore, from the perspective of the ophthalmic imaging equipment provider, the ophthalmic imaging equipment 20 can be operated based on instructions from the ophthalmic information processing system 1, without having to customize the ophthalmic imaging equipment 20 to match the specifications of the ophthalmic information processing system 1 provided by the ophthalmic information processing system provider.

[0110] [Examples of implementation using software] The functions of the ophthalmic information processing system 1 and the ophthalmic imaging device 20 (hereinafter referred to as "the system" and "the device," respectively) may be programs that cause a computer to function as the system and the device. The functions can be realized by programs that cause a computer to function as each control block of the system and the device (particularly each part included in the control units 100 and 200).

[0111] In this case, the system and the apparatus include a computer having at least one control device (e.g., a processor) and at least one storage device (e.g., memory) as hardware for executing the program. By executing the program using this control device and storage device, the functions described in each embodiment are realized.

[0112] The program may be recorded on one or more computer-readable recording media, not temporary ones. These recording media may or may not be provided by the device. In the latter case, the program may be supplied to the device via any wired or wireless transmission medium.

[0113] Furthermore, some or all of the functions of each control block can also be implemented by logic circuits. For example, an integrated circuit in which logic circuits functioning as each of the control blocks are formed is also included in the scope of this disclosure. In addition, it is also possible to implement the functions of each control block using, for example, a quantum computer.

[0114] This disclosure is not limited to the embodiments described above, and various modifications are possible within the scope of the claims. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0115] 1. Ophthalmic Information Processing System 10. Ophthalmic Information Processing Device 20. Ophthalmic imaging equipment 21. Examined eye image (Examined eye image without associated identification information) 22. Examined eye image (examined eye image with associated identification information) 23 Subject information 24 Identification Information 30 Diagnostic support system 31. Diagnostic support information (Diagnostic support information that does not have an associated identification number) 32. Diagnostic support information (diagnostic support information associated with identification information) 33. Diagnostic support information (diagnostic support information associated with identification information) 40 Output device 41 Report 53 Subject information 54 Identification Information 101 Communication Control Unit 103 Operation Target Selection Section 104 Subject information acquisition department 105 Correspondence section 106 Report Generation Department 201 Mode switching section 202 Operation Control Unit 203 Patient Information Reception Department 205 Correspondence section (second correspondence section) 206 Photography Department 301 Diagnostic Support Department 1011 Operation instruction section 1012 Image acquisition unit 1013 Software Interface

Claims

1. An ophthalmic imaging device comprising an imaging unit for capturing images of the eye under examination, and an operation control unit capable of performing operations related to capturing the images of the eye under examination according to input operations to the device itself, and capable of performing the operations according to instructions from an external device, is communicated with and connected to the device. An operation instruction unit that instructs the ophthalmic imaging device to be operated on to perform the aforementioned operation, An image acquisition unit that acquires an image of the eye of the subject taken in accordance with the above instructions from the ophthalmic imaging device, The system includes a diagnostic support unit that takes the acquired eye image as input and outputs diagnostic support information for the eye image, An ophthalmic information processing system in which the operation instruction unit instructs the ophthalmic imaging device to perform at least one of the following operations: start of imaging sequence, stop of imaging sequence, switching between left and right eye, optimization of imaging unit, alignment, and capture, in a manner that satisfies the specifications of an API (Application Programming Interface) or SDK (Software Development Kit) as a software interface for instructing the ophthalmic imaging device to perform the aforementioned operations.

2. The ophthalmic information processing system according to claim 1, wherein the image acquisition unit acquires the image of the eye to be examined via a software interface for acquiring the image of the eye to be examined.

Images