Stroke treatment support system

Abstract

To provide methods and systems for supporting brain infarction treatment by enabling easy handling of support information useful in identifying types of brain infarction.SOLUTION: The method for supporting brain infarction treatment comprises the steps of: measuring a biological sample taken from a patient 1 and generating genetic information 240 related to a brain infarction susceptibility gene; setting an identification information 245a of the patient 1 in the genetic information 240; associating the set identification information 245a of the patient 1 and the identification information 245a of the patient 1 stored in a management part 250; and managing the genetic information 240 with at least one of the identification information 245a of the patient 1 stored in the management part 250 and a patient information 245 of the patient 1 including the identification information 245a of the patient 1.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 10

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a method and a system for supporting the treatment of cerebral infarction, and particularly to a method and a system for supporting the treatment of patients with acute cerebral infarction.

Background Art

[0002] In recent years, research has been conducted to identify the type of cerebral infarction based on the presence or absence of susceptibility genes in a patient's biological sample (see, for example, Non-Patent Document 1).

Prior Art Documents

Non-Patent Documents

[0003]

Non-Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] A detection device for identifying the presence or absence of susceptibility genes in a patient's biological sample is usually installed in a room separate from the treatment room where the device for treating cerebral infarction is installed. In this case, the technician who performs the detection work using the detection device cannot know which treatment room the patient from whom the biological sample was collected was transported to, and thus cannot determine which treatment room the support information useful for identifying the type of cerebral infarction obtained by the detection work should be taken to. Such a situation is fatal in the acute treatment of cerebral infarction where there is a high need to promptly start treatment.

[0005] This invention was made to solve the above problems, and one object of this invention is to provide a method and a system for supporting the treatment of cerebral infarction that facilitate the handling of support information useful for identifying the type of cerebral infarction. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] To achieve the above objective, the inventors of this invention conducted diligent studies and found that the presence or absence of a specific human gene significantly correlates with susceptibility genes for identifying the type of cerebral infarction, leading to the invention described below. Specifically, the method for supporting cerebral infarction treatment in the first aspect of this invention includes the steps of: a detection device measuring a biological sample taken from a patient and generating gene-related information including first information on whether or not the biological sample has susceptibility genes related to cerebral infarction; the detection device linking the gene-related information to the patient's identification information; the management unit associating the patient's identification information linked to the gene-related information with the patient's identification information stored in the management unit; the management unit associating at least one of the patient's identification information stored in the management unit or the patient's patient information corresponding to the patient's identification information with second information generated based on the first information, which includes at least one of the following: information on the type of cerebral infarction, information on the patient's cerebrovascular system, and information indicating treatment devices that are recommended or not recommended for use in the patient's cerebral infarction catheter treatment; and the management unit associating the second information with the patient's identification information or the patient's patient information. Stored in the management department The system includes the steps of: deleting first information and storing and managing patient identification information or second information associated with the patient's patient information; the management unit receiving patient identification information transmitted from a device used for diagnosing or treating the patient's stroke; the management unit identifying patient identification information stored in the management unit that corresponds to the received patient identification information transmitted from the device used for diagnosing or treating the patient's stroke; and the management unit transmitting gene-related information, which is managed in association with the identified patient identification information stored in the management unit, to the device used for diagnosing or treating the patient's stroke.

[0007] A stroke treatment support system in a second aspect of this invention includes a detection device that measures a biological sample taken from a patient and generates gene-related information including first information on whether or not the biological sample has susceptibility genes related to stroke, and a device that stores patient identification information, is communicably connected to the detection device, associates the patient identification information linked to the gene-related information with the stored patient identification information, and associates at least one of the stored patient identification information or patient information of the patient corresponding to the patient identification information with second information generated based on the first information, which includes at least one of the following: information on the type of stroke, information on the patient's cerebrovascular system, and information indicating treatment devices that are recommended or not recommended for use in the patient's stroke catheter treatment. , suffering The system includes a management unit that stores and manages second information associated with the identification information of a person or the patient's patient information, and the management unit is: After associating the second piece of information with the patient's identification information or the patient's patient information, the first piece of information stored in the management unit is deleted. The system is configured to receive patient identification information transmitted from a device used for diagnosing or treating a patient's stroke, identify patient identification information stored in the management unit that corresponds to the received patient identification information transmitted from the device used for diagnosing or treating a patient's stroke, and transmit gene-related information managed in association with the identified patient identification information stored in the management unit to the device used for diagnosing or treating a patient's stroke. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] In the first phase of the stroke treatment support method and the second phase of the stroke treatment support system, the above configuration allows for the treatment of patients with acute stroke, Second information, generated based on first information regarding whether or not a biological sample has susceptibility genes related to cerebral infarction, includes at least one of the following: information regarding the type of cerebral infarction, information regarding the patient's cerebrovascular system, and information indicating treatment devices that are recommended or not recommended for use in the patient's cerebral infarction catheter treatment. This information can be managed in association with at least one of the patient identification information stored in the management unit or the patient information of the patient corresponding to the patient identification information. This allows physicians to easily retrieve information related to stroke susceptibility genes for patients being treated for stroke from the management unit. In summary, this facilitates the handling of support information that is useful for identifying the type of stroke. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0009] [Figure 1] This is a schematic diagram showing the overall structure of the stroke treatment support system. [Figure 2] This is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of a detection device. [Figure 3] Figures (A) to (F) illustrate the detection results of the detection device. [Figure 4] This is a diagram to explain the second piece of information. [Figure 5] This is a schematic diagram showing the types of treatment devices. [Figure 6] This diagram shows examples of the first and second pieces of information. [Figure 7] This diagram shows an example configuration of a stroke treatment support system. [Figure 8] This is a flowchart illustrating the treatment process for patients with acute ischemic stroke. [Figure 9] This is a flowchart illustrating methods for supporting the treatment of cerebral infarction. [Figure 10] This is a schematic diagram illustrating the information sharing between servers and modalities in a stroke treatment support system. [Figure 11] This is a schematic diagram illustrating the process of transmitting first and / or second information to an X-ray imaging device. [Figure 12] This is a flowchart illustrating the process of transmitting the first and / or second piece of information. [Figure 13] This is a flowchart illustrating the process of deleting the first piece of information. [Figure 14] This flowchart illustrates the process of transmitting the second piece of information and either a CT or MRI image. [Figure 15] This is a block diagram showing the configuration of an angiography system. [Figure 16] This figure shows an example of an angiography system. [Figure 17] This is a diagram illustrating the generation of superimposed images. [Figure 18] This is a diagram illustrating the reconstruction of vascular image data. [Figure 19]It is a flowchart showing the operation of an angiography device. [Figure 20] It is a flowchart showing the process of transmitting the second information according to the first modification example. [Figure 21] It is a flowchart showing the process of deleting the first information according to the second modification example.

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0010] Hereinafter, embodiments embodying the present invention will be described based on the drawings.

[0011] Referring to FIG. 1, the configuration of a cerebral infarction treatment support system 100 according to an embodiment will be described.

[0012] The cerebral infarction treatment support system 100 is a system that supports the diagnosis and treatment of acute cerebral infarction patients. The cerebral infarction treatment support system 100 is provided, for example, in a medical facility such as a hospital. The cerebral infarction treatment support system 100 is configured to provide information useful for diagnosis and treatment to a doctor or the like when diagnosing and treating an acute cerebral infarction patient transported to the facility. The cerebral infarction treatment support system 100 can provide support information different from medical images to a doctor or the like separately from medical images (X-ray images, CT images, MRI images, etc.) used for the diagnosis and treatment of acute cerebral infarction patients.

[0013] The cerebral infarction treatment support system 100 includes at least a gene detection device 10, an image control unit 20, and a display unit 30.

[0014] The detection device 10 is configured to measure a biological sample 2 collected from a patient 1 and generate first information 41 indicating whether the biological sample 2 has a susceptibility gene related to cerebral infarction. The detection device 10 is installed, for example, in a laboratory of a medical facility such as a hospital.

[0015] Biological sample 2 is a liquid collected from patient 1 and containing at least patient 1's genomic DNA. Biological sample 2 includes, for example, a sample such as blood or saliva collected from patient 1. The blood may include whole blood, plasma, or serum. The sample may also be tissue or cells such as hair, nails, skin, or mucous membranes. In addition to the sample, biological sample 2 may contain components used for measurement by the detection device 10. Biological sample 2 may include, for example, a lysis solution for eluting genes from the sample, a reaction solution for amplifying genes, etc. The reaction solution is designed to react specifically with susceptibility genes related to cerebral infarction, which is the target of detection. In this specification, the term biological sample includes not only the sample itself collected from patient 1, but also prepared samples prepared from the sample and other components.

[0016] Susceptibility genes for cerebral infarction are significantly correlated with the likelihood of developing a particular type of cerebral infarction. That is, the presence of a susceptibility gene for cerebral infarction in biological sample 2 indicates that the likelihood of developing the type of cerebral infarction associated with that gene is significantly higher or lower compared to the case where the susceptibility gene is absent. A susceptibility gene for cerebral infarction can be a mutation or polymorphism in a specific gene. Information 41 indicates whether or not such a gene mutation or polymorphism is present in the DNA of biological sample 2.

[0017] The first piece of information 41 is information that can determine whether or not a susceptibility gene for cerebral infarction is present. The first piece of information 41 may be binary information indicating, for example, "the susceptibility gene for cerebral infarction is present (positive)" or "the susceptibility gene for cerebral infarction is absent (negative)". The first piece of information 41 may be information indicating that there are "two (homozygous mutant)", "one (heterozygous mutant / wild-type)", or "none (homozygous wild-type)" mutations or gene polymorphisms that constitute the susceptibility gene.

[0018] In the stroke treatment support system 100, second information 42 related to the diagnosis or treatment of stroke may be generated based on first information 41, which indicates whether or not a susceptibility gene for stroke is present. The second information 42 may include, for example, information indicating the type of stroke significantly associated with the susceptibility gene for stroke. In addition, for example, patients with the susceptibility gene may exhibit characteristics (traits) that make them more prone to developing stroke. These characteristics include, for example, a tendency for narrow blood vessels in the brain or a tendency for weak blood vessel walls. The second information 42 is secondary information generated by taking into account other medical and scientific findings, using the first information 41 (whether or not a susceptibility gene for stroke is present) as primary information. The detection device 10 does not need to generate the second information 42. The second information 42 may be generated, for example, by a computer or server capable of acquiring the first information 41 from the detection device 10 via a network.

[0019] The image control unit 20 acquires at least one of the first information 41 generated by the detection device 10 and the second information 42 related to susceptibility genes generated based on the first information 41. The image control unit 20 controls the display unit 30 to display at least one of the acquired first information 41 and second information 42. The image control unit 20 includes, for example, a computer configured to communicate with the detection device 10 and the display unit 30.

[0020] Specifically, the image control unit 20 includes a receiving unit 21 and a video output unit 22. The receiving unit 21 receives at least one of the first information 41 generated by the detection device 10 and the second information 42 related to susceptibility genes generated based on the first information 41. The receiving unit 21 can communicate directly with the detection device 10, for example, by wire or wireless connection. The receiving unit 21 can communicate with the detection device 10, for example, via a network. The receiving unit 21 does not need to receive information from the detection device 10; it is sufficient that it can access via a network a device that stores the first information 41 generated by the detection device 10 and the second information 42 generated based on the first information 41.

[0021] The video output unit 22 outputs at least one of the received first information 41 and second information 42 to the display unit 30. The video output unit 22 is electrically connected to the display unit 30 by wire or wireless. Figure 1 shows an example in which the image control unit 20 is installed outside the reading room 901 or catheterization room 902. In the example in Figure 1, the image control unit 20 distributes at least one of the first information 41 and second information 42 to the display unit 30 installed in the reading room 901 or catheterization room 902.

[0022] The display unit 30 is a monitor that displays information. The display unit 30 is located in at least one of the following locations: the catheterization room 902 where the angiography X-ray imaging device is located, and the image interpretation room 901 where the image viewing terminal for radiological diagnostic images or MRI images is located. The image control unit 20 outputs the received information (first information 41 and / or second information 42) to the display unit 30. The display unit 30 displays the information (first information 41 and / or second information 42) output from the image control unit 20.

[0023] In the stroke treatment support system 100, at least during the treatment or diagnosis of patient 1, information output from the image control unit 20 (at least one of the first information 41 and the second information 42) is displayed on the display unit 30.

[0024] For patients with acute ischemic stroke, diagnostic CT or MRI images are taken using a CT scanner or MRI scanner within the hospital, and a diagnosis is made in the hospital's image interpretation room 901. In the ischemic stroke treatment support system 100, for example, when diagnosing patient 1, the information received by the image control unit 20 is output to the display unit 30 installed in the image interpretation room 901. The image interpretation room 901 is a room where image viewing terminals (PCs) for diagnostic images such as radiological diagnostic equipment (X-ray machines, CT scanners, etc.) or MRIs are located.

[0025] After diagnosis, during the treatment phase for stroke patients, catheter treatment is performed, for example, on the infarcted area within the cerebral blood vessels. In the stroke treatment support system 100, for example, during catheter treatment for patient 1, the information received by the image control unit 20 is output to the display unit 30 installed in the catheterization room 902. The catheterization room 902 is a room equipped with an angiography system used during catheter treatment.

[0026] Thus, the display unit 30 is located in at least one of the catheterization room 902 and the radiology room 901 within the hospital. In addition to the display units 30 in the catheterization room 902 and the radiology room 901, the stroke treatment support system 100 may also include other display units. Such a display unit 30 could be, for example, the display unit of a portable information terminal such as a tablet terminal carried by a doctor or other medical professional.

[0027] (Detection device) The detection device 10 detects susceptibility genes (target genes) related to cerebral infarction from the biological sample 2. Detecting susceptibility genes means detecting specific base sequences in the genomic DNA contained in the biological sample 2. As a detection result, the detection device 10 generates first information 41 indicating whether or not the biological sample 2 contains susceptibility genes related to cerebral infarction.

[0028] The detection device 10 is not limited to detecting only one susceptibility gene (one type). If the presence or absence of susceptibility genes for multiple types of cerebral infarction significantly correlates with the likelihood of developing any of these types of cerebral infarction, the first information 41 may represent the presence or absence of each of the multiple types of susceptibility genes.

[0029] The detection device 10, for example, amplifies the target gene in the biological sample 2. The detection device 10, for example, binds the target gene to a labeling substance. The detection device 10 detects susceptibility genes related to cerebral infarction by detecting the labeling substance bound to the target gene. The labeling substance is not particularly limited as long as it is a substance that generates a signal detectable by the detection device 10, but includes, for example, a fluorescent substance (fluorescent label). In this case, the detection device 10 irradiates the biological sample 2 with excitation light and detects the fluorescence generated from the labeling substance.

[0030] In the example configuration shown in Figure 2, the detection device 10 is a gene amplification detection device that uses the PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) method to amplify and detect the target gene. The detection device 10 comprises a container mounting unit 11, a detection unit 12, a temperature control unit 13, and a data processing unit 14.

[0031] The container mounting section 11 is configured to accommodate a sample container 3 containing a biological sample 2. The sample container 3 is a light-transmitting reaction vessel and may be a so-called PCR tube or well plate.

[0032] The temperature control unit 13 is configured to heat and / or cool the sample container 3 placed on the container mounting unit 11 to adjust the temperature of the biological sample 2. The temperature control unit 13 performs a thermal cycle treatment that periodically raises and lowers the temperature of the biological sample 2. Through the thermal cycle treatment, the target gene for detection (a susceptibility gene related to cerebral infarction) in the biological sample 2 is amplified.

[0033] The detection unit 12 includes a light source 12a and a photodetector 12b. The light source 12a includes, for example, an LED (light-emitting diode) element and generates excitation light for the fluorescent probe contained in the biological sample 2. The light source 12a irradiates the biological sample 2 in the sample container 3, which is placed on the container mounting unit 11, with the excitation light. The fluorescent probe contained in the biological sample 2 is excited by the irradiation of the excitation light and generates fluorescence. The photodetector 12b is configured to detect the fluorescence generated from the fluorescent probe contained in the biological sample 2. The photodetector 12b outputs a detection signal corresponding to the fluorescence intensity generated from the biological sample 2. The photodetector 12b includes, for example, a photomultiplier tube (PMT) or a photodiode.

[0034] In the example configuration shown in Figure 2, the detection device 10 is configured to perform gene amplification on a biological sample 2 containing a sample 2a containing blood or saliva collected from patient 1, and a reaction solution 2c containing a component that suppresses the effects of inhibitory substances in sample 2a. In other words, the detection device 10 is a direct PCR device that performs PCR processing on a biological sample 2 prepared without any purification process to purify DNA from sample 2a. "Direct PCR" means performing PCR processing without going through DNA purification. The reaction solution 2c containing a component that suppresses the effects of inhibitory substances contains a PCR enzyme, a fluorescent probe, primers, and a component that suppresses the effects of inhibitory substances in sample 2a. As a component that suppresses the effects of inhibitory substances, it is preferable to use, for example, Ampdirect® buffer manufactured by Shimadzu Corporation.

[0035] Furthermore, the detection device 10 is configured to perform real-time PCR, which involves labeling with a labeling substance during the gene amplification process. In other words, the detection device 10 does not perform labeling on the amplified product after gene amplification by PCR, but rather specifically binds a fluorescent probe to the target gene (a susceptibility gene related to cerebral infarction) during the gene amplification process by PCR.

[0036] In the example configuration shown in Figure 2, first, sample 2a collected from patient 1 is mixed with cell lysate 2b. The mixture of sample 2a and cell lysate 2b is then mixed with reaction solution 2c in sample container 3. Reaction solution 2c contains PCR enzyme, fluorescent probe, primer, and components that suppress the effects of inhibitors in sample 2a. This prepares biological sample 2. The components that suppress the effects of inhibitors allow PCR processing to be performed without DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) purification. The detection unit 12 detects fluorescence indicating the presence of the target gene during the gene amplification process by real-time PCR processing and outputs a detection signal corresponding to the fluorescence intensity to the data processing unit 14.

[0037] The data processing unit 14 is comprised of a computer comprising a processor 14a such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a storage unit 14b that stores a program 15 for gene analysis, and a communication unit 14c. The storage unit 14b includes volatile and / or non-volatile storage devices. The communication unit 14c includes a communication interface that can connect to a network of a medical facility such as a hospital.

[0038] The processor 14a acquires the detection signal output from the detection unit 12. The processor 14a analyzes the detection signal by executing the program 15 stored in the storage unit 14b. Through the analysis, the processor 14a generates first information 41 indicating whether or not the biological sample 2 has susceptibility genes related to cerebral infarction. The processor 14a causes the communication unit 14c to transmit the first information 41 to the server 50 via the network. The first information 41 may also be transmitted directly to the image control unit 20.

[0039] Furthermore, patient information 45 is assigned to the biological sample 2 taken from patient 1. Patient information 45 includes unique identification information that identifies patient 1. The detection device 10, for example, assigns the patient information 45 of patient 1 from whom the biological sample 2 was taken to the first information 41.

[0040] Furthermore, while Figure 2 shows an example in which a prepared sample, a mixture of sample 2a, cell lysate 2b, and reaction solution 2c, is supplied to the detection device 10 as the biological sample 2, alternatively, for example, a biological sample 2 containing only sample 2a may be supplied to the detection device 10. In this case, the detection device 10 may be configured to include a mechanism for dispensing the cell lysate 2b and reaction solution 2c into a sample container 3 containing the biological sample 2, thereby preparing the sample for measurement within the detection device 10.

[0041] Furthermore, susceptibility genes related to cerebral infarction may be single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the base sequence of specific genes. Methods for detecting SNPs include, for example, RFLP (restriction enzyme cleavage length polymorphism), PCR-SSCP (single-stranded DNA higher-order structure polymorphism analysis), ASO (allele-specific oligonucleotide) hybridization, sequencing, ARMS (amplification refracting mutation system), denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis, RNAseA cleavage, DOL (dye-labeled oligonucleotide ligation), TaqMan PCR, primer extension, and Invader method. The detection device 10 may be a device capable of performing any of the above detection methods, in addition to the configuration example shown in Figure 2.

[0042] (Susceptibility genes related to cerebral infarction) Susceptibility genes for cerebral infarction include, for example, the RNF213p.R4810K gene polymorphism.

[0043] RNF213 (Ring finger protein 213) (GenBank accession number NM_001256071.1) is located in the human chromosome region 17q25.3.

[0044] The RNF213 p.R4810K gene polymorphism is a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) of 73097 G>A in the nucleotide sequence represented by Sequence ID No. 2. The detection device 10 detects the 73097 G>A SNP in the biological sample 2.

[0045] Sequence ID 2 is a partial nucleotide sequence of human chromosome 17 DNA containing the mysterin gene and surrounding gene regions [FLJ3520, NPTX1, CARD14, and Raptor (KIAA1303)], and corresponds to nucleotides 43560001 to 43795000 of Contig #NT010783.15 registered with NCBI.

[0046] In addition to the SNP at position 73097 (73097 G>A) which is G or A, the nucleotide sequence represented by Sequence ID 2 may also contain the following SNPs: at position 4766 (4766 T>C) which is T or C, at position 120764 (120764 G>A) which is G or A, at position 152917 (152917 G>A) which is G or A, and at position 232102 (232102 G>A) which is G or A.

[0047] In this specification, the position of an SNP is described based on the position of the nucleotide in the nucleotide sequence represented by Sequence ID No. 2. For example, "SNP at position 73097" means the SNP at position 73097 of the nucleotide sequence represented by Sequence ID No. 2. When written as "73097 G>A", the base of the major allele (in this case, G) is written before the ">" symbol, and the base of the minor allele (in this case, A) is written after it.

[0048] Furthermore, in this specification, nucleotide sequences are described as DNA sequences unless otherwise specified. However, if the polynucleotide is RNA (ribonucleic acid), thymine (T) should be appropriately replaced with uracil (U). The polynucleotide may include any additional sequences in addition to the continuous partial sequence or complementary sequence of the nucleotide sequence represented by Sequence ID No. 2.

[0049] Our research has revealed that the RNF213 p.R4810K polymorphism increases the risk of ischemic stroke (i.e., atherothrombotic cerebral infarction) due to aortic atherosclerosis. Based on this finding, the present inventors have filed a patent application. The patent application number of the present inventors is Japanese Patent Application No. 2018-233549, PCT / JP2018 / 045915, and this specification incorporates the entire disclosure of these applications by reference.

[0050] Figures 3(A) to 3(F) illustrate the detection results of the RNF213 p.R4810K gene polymorphism using the detection device 10. In all graphs from Figure 3(A) to 3(F), the vertical axis represents the signal intensity (fluorescence intensity) of the detection signal from the detection device 10, and the horizontal axis represents the number of PCR processing cycles in the detection device 10.

[0051] Figure 3(A) shows the detection results for the wild-type positive control of the RNF213 gene. Figure 3(B) shows the detection results for the mutant positive control of the RNF213 gene. Wild-type refers to a nucleotide sequence that does not contain the p.R4810K gene polymorphism, and mutant refers to a nucleotide sequence that contains the p.R4810K gene polymorphism. Positive controls are synthesized DNA containing both wild-type and mutant sequences. Figure 3(C) shows the detection results for a heterozygous positive control in which one allele of RNF213 is wild-type and the other is mutant. Figure 3(D) shows the detection results using blood collected from subjects. Figure 3(E) shows the detection results using saliva collected from subjects. Figure 3(F) shows the detection results for a negative control used to verify the results of the detection device 10. The negative control is a sample that does not contain either the wild-type or mutant RNF213 gene.

[0052] In Figure 3(A), the intensity of the fluorescence signal (referred to as wild-type signal 16) generated from a fluorescent probe that specifically binds to the wild-type RNF213 gene increases, while the intensity of the fluorescence signal (referred to as mutant signal 17) generated from a fluorescent probe that specifically binds to the mutation in the RNF213 gene remains unchanged. In Figure 3(B), the intensity of wild-type signal 16 remains unchanged, while the intensity of mutant signal 17 increases. In Figure 3(C), the intensities of both wild-type signal 16 and mutant signal 17 increase. Therefore, based on the detection results from the detection device 10, it is possible to determine the presence or absence of the RNF213 p.R4810K gene polymorphism based on the change in the intensity of mutant signal 17.

[0053] Figures 3(D) and 3(E) confirm that the same signal intensity changes as the positive control were obtained from blood and saliva samples actually collected from subjects. Figure 3(F) confirms that there was no nonspecific amplification, and specific amplification and labeling of the target gene were achieved.

[0054] Based on the above, the data processing unit 14 shown in Figure 2 determines the presence or absence of a susceptibility gene for cerebral infarction (RNF213 p.R4810K gene polymorphism) based on the change in intensity of the variant signal 17. The data processing unit 14 creates first information 41 according to the determination result. Specifically, the data processing unit 14 generates first information 41 indicating the presence of a susceptibility gene for cerebral infarction when the intensity of the signal derived from the labeling substance for the susceptibility gene for cerebral infarction (variant signal 17) increases in the detection result. The data processing unit 14 generates first information 41 indicating the absence of a susceptibility gene for cerebral infarction when the intensity of the signal derived from the labeling substance for the susceptibility gene for cerebral infarction (variant signal 17) does not increase in the detection result.

[0055] As a criterion for determining the presence or absence of a susceptibility gene in the detection results, for example, a threshold is set for the signal intensity. The data processing unit 14 obtains, for example, the difference between the signal intensity at the start of the PCR process and the signal intensity at the end of the PCR process, and determines that a susceptibility gene is present if the obtained difference exceeds the threshold. Alternatively, it may be determined that a susceptibility gene is present simply if the signal intensity of the mutant signal 17 exceeds the threshold.

[0056] Susceptibility genes for cerebral infarction may be other than the RNF213 p.R4810K gene polymorphism. Recent genetic studies suggest a correlation between cardiogenic cerebral infarction and related genes such as PITX2 (human chromosome region 4q25) and ZFHX3 (human chromosome region 16q22). Correlation between lacunar infarction and related genes such as ALDH2 (human chromosome region 12q24) has also been suggested. Susceptibility genes for cerebral infarction may include one or more of these genes. Susceptibility genes for cerebral infarction are not limited to those mentioned above, but are any genes that show a significant correlation with a particular type of cerebral infarction.

[0057] (Second information) Next, the second information 42 will be described. In the example shown in Figure 4, the second information 42 includes at least one of the following: information 42a regarding the type of cerebral infarction, information 42b regarding the cerebrovascular system of patient 1, and information 42c (hereinafter referred to as "device information 42c") indicating treatment devices that are recommended or not recommended for use in catheter treatment for cerebral infarction in patient 1. The second information 42 is generated, for example, in the form of a message (text) to the user.

[0058] Information 42a regarding the type of cerebral infarction indicates the type of cerebral infarction that is significantly correlated with the susceptibility gene detected by the first information 41. Cerebral infarction is classified into three types: cardioembolic stroke, lacunar infarction, and atherothrombotic stroke. The presence of a susceptibility gene indicates, for example, that the likelihood of developing any type of cerebral infarction is significantly higher or lower. Information 42a regarding the type of cerebral infarction may be a message indicating that the likelihood of developing a particular type of cerebral infarction is significantly higher or lower.

[0059] The information 42b regarding patient 1's cerebral blood vessels is information about the morphology or properties of patient 1's cerebral blood vessels, inferred based on the presence or absence of susceptibility genes. The information 42b regarding patient 1's cerebral blood vessels may, for example, be a message indicating that the cerebral blood vessels tend to be wide or narrow if the susceptibility gene is present. The information 42b regarding patient 1's cerebral blood vessels may, for example, be a message indicating that the cerebral blood vessels tend to be strong (less prone to injury) or weak (more prone to injury) if the susceptibility gene is present.

[0060] Device information 42c is information indicating the type or shape of the treatment device that is an option in catheter treatment.

[0061] Treatment devices used in catheter-based treatment for cerebral infarction include the thrombus retrieval device 5a, the thrombus aspiration device 5b, and the percutaneous transluminal angioplasty device 5c, as shown in Figure 5. The thrombus retrieval device 5a has a coiled wire for entangling and retrieving thrombi. The thrombus aspiration device 5b is hollow and tubular, and is configured to remove thrombi by aspirating them into the device. The percutaneous transluminal angioplasty device 5c includes a balloon catheter and a stent.

[0062] Device information 42c may be a message indicating, for example, a therapeutic device among the thrombus retrieval device 5a, thrombus aspiration device 5b, and percutaneous transluminal angioplasty device 5c that is recommended or not recommended for use.

[0063] For example, the presence of the RNF213 p.R4810K gene polymorphism significantly increases the likelihood of developing atherothrombotic cerebral infarction. Furthermore, in individuals with this gene polymorphism, the relatively large blood vessels in the brain that are the site of infarction due to atherothrombotic cerebral infarction tend to be narrower compared to the same site in individuals without this gene polymorphism. Moreover, because even relatively large blood vessels in the brain tend to be narrower than normal, using thrombectomy devices that easily come into contact with blood vessels may lead to re-occlusion due to endothelial damage to the occluded vessels.

[0064] Therefore, as an example, as shown in Figure 6, if the first information 41 indicates the presence of the RNF213 p.R4810K gene polymorphism, the information on the type of cerebral infarction 42a includes a message stating that the type of cerebral infarction that occurred in patient 1 from whom the biological sample 2 was taken is "highly likely to be atherothrombotic cerebral infarction." The information on the cerebral blood vessels of patient 1 42b includes a message stating that "the cerebral blood vessels of patient 1 from whom the biological sample 2 was taken tend to be narrow." The device information 42c includes a message stating that "the use of the thrombus retrieval device 5a is not recommended," and / or that "the use of the thrombus aspiration device 5b or percutaneous transluminal angioplasty device 5c is recommended." The device information 42c may also include a message stating that "the use of a smaller-than-usual therapeutic device is recommended."

[0065] In the configuration example shown in Figure 2, the stroke treatment support system 100 is connected to the detection device 10 and the image control unit 20 in a communicative manner and includes a server 50 that stores the first information 41. As shown in Figure 4, the server 50 is configured to generate the second information 42 based on the first information 41.

[0066] As described above, the server 50 has a second information generation table 51 for generating second information 42 according to the content of the first information 41 (presence / absence of susceptibility gene). The second information generation table 51 is a data table that records the presence or absence of a specific susceptibility gene in association with the content of the second information 42 that should be generated in response to the presence or absence of the susceptibility gene. When the server 50 obtains the first information 41 from the detection device 10, it generates the second information 42 by referring to the second information 42 corresponding to the content of the first information 41 from the second information generation table 51. The second information 42 is associated with the first information 41, or with patient information 45 attached to the first information 41. Patient information 45 attached to the first information 41 may also be attached to the second information 42.

[0067] The generation of the second information 42 may be performed by the server 50 within the hospital, or it may be generated on a cloud server or the like via the internet. The detection device 10 may also generate the second information 42 together with the first information 41. The server 50 includes, for example, at least one of a radiology information system server and a medical image management system server connected to the hospital network. Here, the radiology information system server is called the RIS (Radiology Information Systems) server 52 (see Figure 7) and is a server that primarily performs processing for a system that manages examinations using radiology equipment and examination results. The medical image management system server is a server that collects and records medical image data and is also called the DICOM server 53 (see Figure 7) because it handles medical image data that conforms to the DICOM standard.

[0068] The image control unit 20 (see Figure 1) is configured, for example, to receive at least the second information 42 from the server 50. The image control unit 20 outputs and displays at least the received second information 42 on the display unit 30. The image control unit 20 may receive both the first information 41 and the second information 42 and display them on the display unit 30. The image control unit 20 may display only the first information 41 on the display unit 30, in which case the stroke treatment support system 100 does not need to generate the second information 42.

[0069] (Example configuration of a stroke treatment support system) Figure 7 shows a more specific example of the configuration of the stroke treatment support system 100. The stroke treatment support system 100 can be configured as part or all of the hospital network.

[0070] The hospital network is connected to radiation equipment such as a CT scanner 101 and an MRI scanner 102, as well as detection devices 10. The hospital network is also connected to various portable terminals 103, such as tablet-type information terminals, and various servers such as a RIS server 52 and a DICOM server 53. In addition, the hospital network is connected to an angiography system 70 installed in the catheterization lab 902 and an image viewing terminal 80 installed in the image interpretation room 901.

[0071] The catheterization lab 902 is equipped with an angiography system 70, a catheterization device 104, and other equipment. During treatment, the treatment device 5 to be used is prepared. The angiography system 70 is an angiography device that performs fluoroscopic imaging of blood vessels. The angiography system 70 detects X-rays emitted from an X-ray source using an X-ray detector and creates an image. The angiography system 70 includes a first control device 71 that performs control processing of the device and a first display unit 72 that displays the captured X-ray images. During catheter treatment, the angiography system 70 fluoroscopically images the catheter and treatment device 5 introduced into the blood vessel in video format and displays them on the first display unit 72. Further details of the angiography system 70 will be described later.

[0072] The image viewing terminal 80 installed in the reading room 901 is, for example, a PC (personal computer) and comprises a second control unit 81 and a second display unit 82 that constitute the PC body. In the reading room 901, doctors and other medical personnel use the image viewing terminal 80 to view medical images taken of patient 1 and to identify the site of the thrombus in stroke patient 1, make a diagnosis, and determine the treatment plan. The medical images include CT images taken by the CT scanner 101 and MRI images taken by the MRI scanner.

[0073] In the configuration example shown in Figure 7, the image control unit 20 includes a first control unit 71 provided by the angiography device 70 installed in the catheterization room 902. The first control unit 71 includes a receiving unit 21 and a video output unit 22. The display unit 30 includes a first display unit 72 installed in the catheterization room 902 that displays the X-ray image 73 from the angiography device 70.

[0074] Specifically, the first control device 71 is configured to output to the first display unit 72 at least one of the received first information 41 and second information 42, and the X-ray image 73 of patient 1 taken by the angiography device 70, when patient 1 is being treated with catheterization in the catheterization room 902. As a result, when patient 1 is being treated in the catheterization room 902, the information received by the image control unit 20 (at least one of the first information 41 and second information 42) is displayed.

[0075] Furthermore, in the configuration example shown in Figure 7, the image control unit 20 includes a second control device 81 provided by the image viewing terminal 80 installed in the reading room 901. The second control device 81 includes a receiving unit 21 and a video output unit 22. The display unit 30 includes a second display unit 82 installed in the reading room 901 that displays the screen of the image viewing terminal 80.

[0076] Specifically, the second control device 81 is configured to receive at least one of the first information 41 and the second information 42, along with the CT image 6 or MRI image 7 of patient 1, when patient 1 is diagnosed in the reading room 901, and output them to the second display unit 82. As a result, when patient 1 is diagnosed in the reading room 901, the information received by the image control unit 20 (at least one of the first information 41 and the second information 42) is displayed.

[0077] Furthermore, as described above, the first information 41 and the second information 42 are either associated with patient information 45 or recorded in the server 50 (RIS server 52 or DICOM server 53) in association with patient information 45. In addition, patient information 45 is assigned to the X-ray image 73, CT image 6, and MRI image 7 obtained by the angiography device 70 at the time of acquisition. These images and the first information 41 and second information 42 can be identified as having been obtained from the same patient 1 based on the patient information 45.

[0078] Therefore, in the above configuration example, the image control unit 20 receives an image of patient 1 to which patient information 45 has been assigned, and outputs the image having the same patient information 45 and at least one of the first information 41 and the second information 42 to the display unit 30. The image of patient 1 includes any of the X-ray image 73, CT image 6, and MRI image 7 obtained from the angiography X-ray imaging device 70, and may also include other medical images.

[0079] The stroke treatment support system 100 may be configured to provide at least one of the first information 41 and the second information 42 to a physician or other medical professional after treatment of stroke patient 1, when performing postoperative evaluations or confirming the progress of treatment.

[0080] (Patient treatment flow) Next, referring to Figure 8, we will briefly explain the treatment flow for patient 1 with acute ischemic stroke.

[0081] First, Patient 1, who is suspected to have suffered a stroke, is brought to the hospital as an emergency patient.

[0082] After arrival, patient information 45 and triage information are entered into the hospital's network system. The triage information indicates the priority of the treatment order, which is determined based on the severity of patient 1's condition. In addition, a specimen 2a is obtained from patient 1.

[0083] For patient 1, CT images 6 or MRI images 7 are taken in the imaging room using CT scanner 101 or MRI scanner 102. In parallel with the imaging of patient 1, a biological sample 2 is prepared from specimen 2a and supplied to the detection device 10. The stroke treatment support system 100 performs susceptibility gene detection using the detection device 10 in parallel with the imaging of patient 1.

[0084] Next, in the image interpretation room 901, a diagnosis of patient 1 is made based on the acquired CT image 6 or MRI image 7. The image control unit 20 displays at least one of the first information 41 and the second information 42 along with the patient 1 image, based on the patient information 45 (see Figure 6). Based on the provided information, the physician or other medical professional diagnoses that patient 1 has suffered a stroke, identifies the site of the thrombus, and determines the treatment plan.

[0085] In accordance with the treatment plan, for example, the first procedure is performed. The first procedure is the administration of a thrombolytic agent to patient 1. If the blood flow in the cerebral blood vessels is not sufficiently improved by the administration of the thrombolytic agent, the second procedure is performed as needed. The second procedure is catheter treatment.

[0086] During catheter treatment, the image control unit 20 displays at least one of the first information 41 and the second information 42, based on the patient information 45, along with the patient's X-ray image 73 (see Figure 7). The physician performing the treatment selects the treatment device 5 based on the provided information and performs the catheter treatment while referring to the intravascular X-ray image 73.

[0087] (Operation of the stroke treatment support system) Next, the operation of the stroke treatment support system 100 will be explained with reference to Figure 9. The stroke treatment support method of this embodiment is implemented by the stroke treatment support system 100. For the detection device 10, please refer to Figure 2, and for the first information 41, second information 42, and patient information 45, please refer to Figures 4 and 6.

[0088] In step 91, the detection device 10 measures the biological sample 2 taken from patient 1 and generates first information 41 indicating whether or not the biological sample 2 has susceptibility genes related to cerebral infarction.

[0089] In step 92, the detection device 10 adds patient information 45 of patient 1 to the first information 41 generated from the biological sample 2 taken from patient 1 who was brought in as an emergency patient.

[0090] In step 93, second information 42 may be generated based on first information 41. If second information 42 is not to be displayed, step 93 is unnecessary.

[0091] In step 94, the receiving unit 21 of the image control unit 20 (see Figures 1 and 7) receives at least one of the first information 41 and the second information 42.

[0092] In step 95, the video output unit 22 of the image control unit 20 (see Figures 1 and 7) outputs at least one of the first information 41 and the second information 42 received by the image control unit 20 to the display unit 30 for display. Based on the patient information 45, the image control unit 20 receives the first information 41 of the patient 1 from whom the biological sample 2 was taken and outputs it to the display unit 30 (see Figures 1 and 7).

[0093] The display of the first information 41 and / or the second information 42 may be performed only during the treatment or diagnosis of patient 1. In particular, treatment of patient 1 with acute ischemic stroke needs to be carried out in a short amount of time. Therefore, if the detection of susceptibility genes takes time, it is possible that the generation of the first information 41 may not be completed by the time of diagnosis of patient 1. Even in that case, in this embodiment, the received information is displayed on the display unit 30 together with the patient information 45 at least by the time of treatment of patient 1. The physician performing the treatment can select the treatment device 5 by referring to the first information 41 and / or the second information 42.

[0094] (Other configuration examples of stroke support systems) Next, with reference to Figures 10 and 11, the stroke treatment support system 200 with other configuration examples will be described. The stroke treatment support system 200 implements the stroke treatment support method of this artificial form.

[0095] In the example configuration shown in Figure 10, the stroke treatment support system 200 comprises a detection device 210, a server 250, and a modality 105. Note that the server 250 is an example of the "management unit" in the claims.

[0096] Server 250 includes RIS server 252, DICOM server 253, and a hospital information systems server connected to the hospital's network. Here, the hospital information systems server is called HIS (Hospital Information Systems) server 254, and includes, for example, an automated reception system, an electronic medical record management system, a medical accounting system, an appointment scheduling system, and a pharmacy management system. HIS server 254 is configured to store patient information 245. Note that RIS server 252 and DICOM server 253 have the same configuration as RIS server 52 (see Figure 7) and DICOM server 53 (see Figure 7), respectively, so a detailed explanation is omitted.

[0097] Modality 105 includes an angiography device 270 (see Figure 11), an image viewing terminal 80 (see Figure 11), a CT scanner 101 (see Figure 7), and an MRI scanner 102 (see Figure 7), among others. In this specification, "modality" refers to the collective term for these medical imaging devices. Since the angiography device 270 has the same configuration as the angiography device 70, a detailed explanation is omitted. The angiography device 270 is also an example of "device used for the treatment of a patient" in the claims.

[0098] (Genetic information) The detection device 210 measures a biological sample 2 taken from patient 1 and generates gene-related information 240 related to susceptibility genes for cerebral infarction. The gene-related information 240 also includes first information 241 indicating whether or not the biological sample 2 has susceptibility genes for cerebral infarction, and second information 242 related to susceptibility genes generated based on the first information 241.

[0099] (First information and second information) The server 250 is configured to generate second information 242 related to susceptibility genes based on first information 241 contained in gene-related information 240 generated by the detection device 210. The first information 241 is the same information as first information 41 (see Figure 4). That is, first information 241 includes patient information 245 and information on whether or not there is a gene polymorphism. Patient information 245 is the same information as patient information 45 (see Figure 4) and includes identification information 245a. Identification information 245a is unique information that can identify patient 1. Identification information 245a includes, for example, a patient identification number. The second information 242 is the same information as second information 42 (see Figure 4). That is, second information 242 includes at least one of the following: information on the type of cerebral infarction 42a, information on patient 1's cerebrovascular system 42b, and information 42c indicating treatment devices that are recommended or not recommended for use in catheter treatment for cerebral infarction in patient 1.

[0100] In the example shown in Figure 10, the HIS server 254 sends an examination request 201 to the detection device 210. When the HIS server 254 sends the examination request 201, it also sends the identification information 245a of the patient 1 to be examined.

[0101] Upon receiving the inspection request 201, the detection device 210 performs the inspection and generates the first information 241. The detection device 210 also associates the identification information 245a, which was transmitted along with the inspection request 201, with the generated first information 241. The detection device 210 then transmits the first information 241, to which the identification information 245a has been associated, to the HIS server 254.

[0102] The HIS server 254 manages the first information 241 transmitted from the detection device 210. Managing the first information 241 includes storing the first information 241 in the HIS server 254. Furthermore, managing the first information 241 includes transmitting the first information 241 to the angiography X-ray imaging device 270, etc.

[0103] The server 250 is configured to generate second information 242 related to susceptibility genes based on first information 241 contained in gene-related information 240 generated by the detection device 210.

[0104] In this embodiment, the server 250 is configured to store the identification information 245a of patient 1. The server 250 is also connected to the detection device 210 in a communicative manner. Furthermore, the server 250 is configured to associate the set identification information 245a of patient 1 with the stored identification information 245a of patient 1, and to manage the gene-related information 240 by associating at least one of the stored identification information 245a of patient 1 or the patient information 245 of patient 1 related to the identification information 245a of patient 1 with the gene-related information 240. In this embodiment, the process of setting the identification information 245a of patient 1 in the gene-related information 240 is performed by the detection device 210 that generates the gene-related information 240.

[0105] In this embodiment, the server 250 is configured to associate at least one of the first information 241 and the second information 242 with identification information 245a that identifies patient 1 (see Figure 1), thereby managing the association between at least one of the first information 241 and the second information 242 and patient information 245 of patient 1. In this embodiment, the HIS server 254 is configured to associate the second information 242 with patient information 245. The HIS server 254 is also configured to store the second information 242 in its associated state with patient information 245.

[0106] Furthermore, the HIS server 254 sends a request 202 for patient 1 to the RIS server 252. Based on the received request 202, the RIS server 252 sends a request 202 to the modality 105. Specifically, if a request to acquire a CT image 6 of patient 1 is sent, the RIS server 252 sends the request 202 to the CT scanner 101. Similarly, if a request to acquire an MRI image 7 of patient 1 is sent, the RIS server 252 sends the request 202 to the MRI scanner 102. Here, the request 202 may include patient information 245.

[0107] Upon receiving the imaging request 202, modality 105 (in this case, CT scanner 101 or MRI scanner 102) performs imaging of patient 1. After the imaging is completed, modality 105 transmits the acquired images (CT image 6 or MRI image 7) to the DICOM server 253.

[0108] The DICOM server 253 stores the transmitted image (CT image 6 or MRI image 7). Here, by associating the patient information 245 included in the imaging request 202 with the patient information 245 stored in the HIS server 254, at least one of the first information 241 and second information 242 stored in the HIS server 254, along with the patient information 245, can be stored in the header of the transmitted image. The DICOM server 253 also sends imaging completion information 203 to the HIS server 254, indicating that the acquisition of the image (CT image 6 or MRI image 7) has been completed.

[0109] Upon receiving the shooting completion information 203, the HIS server 254 stores that the shooting in the transmitted shooting request 202 has been completed.

[0110] Furthermore, modality 105 obtains first information 241, second information 242, and an image (CT image 6 or MRI image 7) by sending requests (requests 204, 206, and 207) to server 250.

[0111] Specifically, when diagnosing cerebral infarction, the image viewing terminal 80 is configured to acquire images (CT images 6 or MRI images 7) from the DICOM server 253 when operated by a physician or other medical professional. The image viewing terminal 80 sends an image transmission request 204 to the DICOM server 253 when operated by a physician or other medical professional. Upon receiving the image transmission request 204, the DICOM server 253 sends the images (CT images 6 or MRI images 7) to the image viewing terminal 80. For example, the physician or other medical professional creates a diagnostic report 205 regarding the stenotic area, etc., based on the images (CT images 6 or MRI images 7) sent to the image viewing terminal 80. The created diagnostic report 205 is then sent, for example, to the DICOM server 253. The DICOM server 253 stores the transmitted diagnostic report 205.

[0112] Furthermore, when treating a stroke, the angiography device 270 transmits requests 206 and 207 to the server 250 to obtain at least one of the first information 241 and the second information 242, and an image (CT image 6 or MRI image 7). The angiography device 270 obtains the information and images transmitted from the server 250 in response to requests 206 and 207.

[0113] Here, referring to Figure 11, we will describe a configuration in which the server 250 transmits at least one of the first information 241 and the second information 242, as well as an image (CT image 6 or MRI image 7), to the angiography device 270.

[0114] As shown in Figure 11, the angiography X-ray imaging device 270 is configured to send a request 206 to the RIS server 252 to obtain at least one of the first information 241 and the second information 242, when operated by a physician or other person. When the angiography X-ray imaging device 270 sends the transmission request 206, it also sends identification information 245a.

[0115] Upon receiving request 206, RIS server 252 sends request 206 and identification information 245a to HIS server 254.

[0116] Upon receiving request 206, HIS server 254 sends at least one of the first information 241 and the second information 242 associated with the identification information 245a to RIS server 252, based on the received identification information 245a.

[0117] The RIS server 252 transmits at least one of the received first information 241 and second information 242 to the angiography device 270.

[0118] Furthermore, the angiography device 270 transmits a transmission request 207 for an image (CT image 6 or MRI image 7) to the DICOM server 253 based on the actions of a physician or other operator. When transmitting the transmission request 207, the angiography device 270 also transmits identification information 245a.

[0119] Upon receiving the transmission request 207, the DICOM server 253 identifies the image of patient 1 (CT image 6 or MRI image 7) from among multiple stored images (CT image 6 or MRI image 7) based on the identification information 245a. The DICOM server 253 then transmits the identified image (CT image 6 or MRI image 7) to the angiography device 270 via the RIS server 252.

[0120] In other words, the server 250 is configured to associate the second information 242 with the patient 1's CT image 6 or MRI image 7 using identification information 245a. The server 250 is also configured to transmit at least one of the first information 241 and the second information 242 to the angiography device 270. In this embodiment, the server 250 is configured to transmit the patient 1's CT image 6 or MRI image 7 and the second information 242 to the angiography device 270 based on requests 206 and 207 from the angiography device 270.

[0121] In this embodiment, the RIS server 252 is configured to transmit at least one of the first information 241 and the second information 242 to the angiography device 270. However, if at least one of the first information 241 and the second information 242 is stored in the CT image 6 or MRI image 7 of patient 1 stored in the DICOM server 253, then it is unnecessary for the RIS server 252 to transmit at least one of the first information 241 and the second information 242. In this case, at least one of the first information 241 and the second information 242 can be stored in the header of the CT image 6 or MRI image 7 of patient 1.

[0122] (Transmission process of the first and / or second information) Next, referring to Figure 12, the process by which the server 250 generates the first information 241 and the second information 242 will be described.

[0123] In step 301, the detection device 210 measures the biological sample 2 taken from patient 1 and generates gene-related information 240 related to susceptibility genes for cerebral infarction. The detection device 210 then transmits the generated gene-related information 240 to the server 250.

[0124] In step 302, the detection device 210 sets the identification information 245a of patient 1 in the gene-related information 240.

[0125] In step 303, the server 250 associates the configured patient identification information 245a with the patient identification information 245a stored in the server 250.

[0126] In step 304, the server 250 manages the gene-related information 240 by associating at least one of the identification information 245a of patient 1 or the patient information 245 of patient 1 related to the identification information 245a of patient 1 stored in the server 250. The gene-related information 240 includes first information 241 indicating whether or not the biological sample 2 has susceptibility genes related to cerebral infarction, and second information 242 related to susceptibility genes generated based on the first information 241. In this embodiment, the server 250 manages the gene-related information 240 by associating at least one of the identification information 245a of patient 1 or the patient information 245 of patient 1 related to the identification information 245a of patient 1 stored in the server 250 with at least one of the first information 241 and the second information 242. Specifically, the server 250 manages the gene-related information 242 with the patient information 245.

[0127] In step 305, the server 250 determines whether there is a request 206 from the angiography device 270 to transmit first information 241 and / or second information 242. If there is a request 206, the process proceeds to step 306. If there is no request 206, the process terminates.

[0128] In step 306, the server 250 transmits at least one of the first information 241 and the second information 242 to the angiography device 270. The process then ends.

[0129] (Deletion of the first piece of information) In this embodiment, the HIS server 254 is configured to delete the first information 241 immediately after associating the second information 242 with the patient information 245, or after a predetermined period has elapsed, or based on information 208 (see Figure 10) from the angiography device 270 indicating the completion of treatment, and to store the second information 242 in its associated state with the patient information 245. In this embodiment, the HIS server 254 is configured to delete the first information 241 after associating the second information 242 with the patient information 245, based on information 208 from the angiography device 270 indicating the completion of treatment.

[0130] Next, referring to Figure 13, we will explain the deletion process for the first information 241 when it is deleted based on information 208 (see Figure 10) indicating the completion of treatment.

[0131] In step 401, the server 250 determines whether or not information 208 indicating the end of treatment has been transmitted from the angiography device 270. If the server 250 receives information 208 indicating the end of treatment from the angiography device 270, the process proceeds to step 402. If the server 250 does not receive information 208 indicating the end of treatment from the angiography device 270, the server 250 repeats the process in step 401.

[0132] In step 402, server 250 deletes the first information 241. After that, the process terminates.

[0133] (Transmission of second information and CT or MRI images) Next, referring to Figure 14, the process by which the server 250 transmits the second information 242 and the CT image 6 or MRI image 7 of patient 1 to the angiography device 270 will be explained.

[0134] In step 410, the DICOM server 253 determines whether there is a request 207 for image transmission (CT image 6 or MRI image 7) from the angiography device 270. If there is a request for image transmission, the process proceeds to step 411. If there is no request for image transmission, the process in step 410 is repeated. When the angiography device 270 transmits the transmission request 207, the identification information 245a is also transmitted.

[0135] Next, in step 411, the DICOM server 253 (server 250) associates the second information 242 with the patient 1's CT image 6 or MRI image 7 using the identification information 245a. Specifically, upon receiving the transmission request 207, the DICOM server 253 associates the second information 242 with the image (CT image 6 or MRI image 7) by identifying the patient 1's image (CT image 6 or MRI image 7) from among multiple stored images (CT image 6 or MRI image 7) based on the identification information 245a.

[0136] Next, in step 412, the DICOM server 253 (server 250) transmits the identified image (CT image 6 or MRI image 7) to the angiography device 270 via the RIS server 252. That is, based on requests 206 and 207 from the angiography device 270, the DICOM server 253 (server 250) transmits the CT image 6 or MRI image 7 of patient 1 and the second information 242 to the angiography device 270. After that, the process ends.

[0137] (Angiography equipment) The angiography system 270 (see Figure 11) installed in the catheterization room 902 is, for example, the angiography system 500 shown in Figure 15. The configuration of the angiography system 500 will be described in detail below.

[0138] (Configuration of angiography system) As shown in Figures 15 and 16, the angiography apparatus 500 of this embodiment comprises a top plate 501 on which the patient 1 is placed, an imaging unit 502 including an X-ray source 521 and a detection unit 522, an image processing unit 503, a control unit 504, and a display unit 505.

[0139] The tabletop 501 is formed in a rectangular, flat shape when viewed from above. The tabletop 501 is placed on the tabletop such that the head and foot direction of the patient 1 is aligned with the longer side of the rectangle, and the left-right direction of the patient 1 is aligned with the shorter side of the rectangle. In this specification, the head and foot direction of the patient 1 is defined as the X direction, the left-right direction of the patient 1 is defined as the Z direction, and the direction perpendicular to the X and Z directions is defined as the Y direction.

[0140] The imaging unit 502 is configured to irradiate the patient 1 with X-rays from the X-ray source 521 and to detect the X-rays that have passed through the patient 1 in the detection unit 522.

[0141] As shown in Figure 16(b), the X-ray source 521 is attached to one end of the C-shaped holder 523. The X-ray source 521 can irradiate the patient 1 with X-rays when a voltage is applied by an X-ray tube drive unit (not shown). The X-ray source 521 has a collimator that can adjust the X-ray field, which is the range of X-ray irradiation.

[0142] The detection unit 522 is attached to the other end of the holding unit 523. That is, the detection unit 522 is positioned on the opposite side of the top plate 501 from the X-ray source 521. Because the detection unit 522 is positioned opposite the X-ray source 521, it is configured to detect X-rays that have passed through the patient 1. The detection unit 522 includes, for example, an FPD (flat panel detector).

[0143] As shown in Figure 15, the image processing unit 503 is a computer configured to include a processor such as a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit) or an FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array) configured for image processing. The image processing unit functions as an image processing device by executing an image processing program.

[0144] The image processing unit 503 is configured to generate a fluoroscopic image 520 (see Figure 17) of patient 1 based on the detection signal output from the detection unit 522.

[0145] The control unit 504 is a computer that includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit), ROM (Read Only Memory), and RAM (Random Access Memory), among other components.

[0146] The control unit 504 is configured to acquire CT images 6 or MRI images 7 from the server 506. Since the server 506 has the same configuration as the server 250 (see Figures 10 and 11), a detailed explanation is omitted.

[0147] As shown in Figure 15, the control unit 504 is configured to acquire a CT image 6 or MRI image 7 of patient 1 from the server 506 based on patient information 545 of patient 1 who is undergoing fluoroscopy.

[0148] The control unit 504 is configured to select a CT image 6 or MRI image 7 of patient 1 undergoing fluoroscopy that has the same spatial coordinates as the fluoroscopic image 520 generated by the image processing unit 503. Figure 17 is a schematic diagram showing the process of generating a superimposed image 530 of patient 1's head 550. The control unit 504 is configured to control the display unit 505 to superimpose (stack) the fluoroscopic image 520 onto the acquired CT image 6 or MRI image 7 and display it.

[0149] As shown in Figure 17, the control unit 504 is configured to control the display unit 505 to display the treatment location (thrombus site) 511 on the display unit 505 along with the superimposed image 530, if the treatment location (thrombus site) 511 is associated with the CT image 6 or MRI image 7. In Figure 17, a mark 531 is placed on the treatment location 511. The mark 531 may be a shape enclosing the treatment location 511, or an arrow may be displayed.

[0150] The control unit 504 is configured to control the acquisition of gene information 540 from the server 506 that matches the patient information 545 of patient 1 who is undergoing fluoroscopy. The gene information 540 includes at least one of the first information 541 and the second information 542. The first information 541 is the same as the first information 41 (see Figure 4). That is, the first information 541 includes the patient information 545 and information on whether or not there is a gene polymorphism. The second information 542 is the same as the second information 42 (see Figure 4). That is, the second information 542 includes at least one of the following: information on the type of cerebral infarction 42a, information on the cerebrovascular system of patient 1 42b, and information 42c indicating a treatment device that is recommended or not recommended for use in catheter treatment for cerebral infarction of patient 1.

[0151] The control unit 504 is configured to control the display unit 505 to superimpose the fluoroscopic image 520 and the CT image 6 or MRI image 7, and to further display genetic information 540 on the resulting image. The control unit 504 is configured to control the display of the genetic information 540 at a position that does not overlap with the treatment location 511. As shown in Figure 17, the position that does not overlap with the treatment location 511 is, if the mark 531 indicating the treatment location 511 is displayed, a position that does not overlap with the mark 531.

[0152] The display unit 505 is a monitor attached to the angiography apparatus 500. As shown in Figure 17, the catheter 512 is clearly captured in the fluoroscopic image 520, but the blood vessel 513 is not. Therefore, by superimposing the CT image 6 or MRI image 7, a superimposed image 530 is generated in which the catheter 512 and the blood vessel 513 are superimposed. As shown in Figure 17, in the superimposed image 530, the pixel values ​​of the blood vessel 513 are inverted in order to make the catheter 512 clearer. In Figure 18, the blood vessel 513 is shown in white to indicate that its pixel values ​​have been inverted. Alternatively, the pixel values ​​of the catheter 512 may also be inverted. In addition, a mark 531 indicating the treatment position 511 and genetic information 540 are displayed on the superimposed image. In Figure 17, the genetic information 540 is shown in text. The superimposed image 530, the treatment position 511, and the genetic information 540 are displayed on the display unit 505 attached to the angiography apparatus 500, allowing doctors and other medical professionals to confirm them during treatment. The displayed gene information 540 is at least one of the first information 541 and the second information 542.

[0153] (The process of diagnosis by a doctor, etc.) When patient 1, who has suffered a stroke, is transported to the hospital, a physician or other medical professional takes a CT scan 6 or an MRI scan 7.

[0154] CT scanning involves rotating and moving the scanning unit to capture images of the patient from multiple directions. As shown in Figure 18(a), CT scanning generates multiple two-dimensional image data. Figure 18(a) shows images taken while moving in the cephalofoot direction (X direction). Then, as shown in Figure 18(b), three-dimensional image data can be generated by reconstructing multiple consecutively captured two-dimensional CT images 6. The desired CT image 6 can be obtained by cutting the three-dimensional data in any direction. For example, if a blood vessel 513 extends along the cephalofoot direction, the reconstructed three-dimensional image data may be cut in a direction parallel to the cephalofoot direction (X direction), as shown in Figure 18(c).

[0155] Furthermore, three-dimensional image data can be generated by reconstructing the MRI image 7. By cutting the generated three-dimensional image data in the direction in which the blood vessels extend, images of the blood vessels 513 can be generated.

[0156] In the reading room 901, physicians and other medical professionals identify the treatment location 511 from the CT image 6 or MRI image 7. By selecting the treatment location 511 in the CT image 6 or MRI image 7, the physicians and other medical professionals mark the treatment location 511, and the treatment location 511 is associated with the CT image 6 or MRI image 7.

[0157] In the case of CT image 6, physicians can identify the treatment location 511 by the CT value, which is the X-ray absorption value. In the case of cerebral infarction, a thrombus is present in the blood vessel 513 at the treatment location 511. Because the thrombus absorbs more X-rays than the blood vessel to which the contrast agent was administered, the CT value is higher and it appears darker than a blood vessel without a thrombus. Physicians can identify the treatment location 511 from the difference in CT values.

[0158] In the case of MRI image 7, doctors can determine the treatment location 511 based on the detected signal. Areas with high blood flow have a strong detection signal, while areas with low blood flow have a weak detection signal. Therefore, blood vessels with low blood flow (where a stroke is occurring) appear darker than other blood vessels. Thus, doctors can identify the treatment location 511.

[0159] After the CT image 6 and MRI image 7 of patient 1 have been taken, the physician begins treatment to remove the thrombus. As shown in Figure 17, when the physician begins fluoroscopy for treatment, the display unit 505 displays a superimposed image 530, which is a superimposed image of the fluoroscopic image 520 and the CT image 6 or MRI image 7, along with genetic information 540. As shown in Figure 17, a mark 531 is placed at the treatment location 511 of the CT image 6 or MRI image 7, so that the treatment location 511 can be confirmed even if the physician performing the treatment and the physician diagnosing in the reading room 901 are different. Since the superimposed image 530 and genetic information 540 are displayed on the display unit 505, the physician can perform the surgery smoothly.

[0160] Next, with reference to Figure 19, the operation of the fluoroscopic imaging device 500 will be explained.

[0161] In step 601, the angiography device 500 starts fluoroscopy after receiving input from the user. Once fluoroscopy is started, the angiography device 500 irradiates the patient 1 with X-rays from the X-ray source 521. The detection unit 522 detects the X-rays that have passed through the patient 1 and outputs a detection signal.

[0162] In step 602, the image processing unit 503 generates a perspective image 520 based on the detection signal.

[0163] In step 603, the control unit 504 controls the acquisition of a CT image 6 or MRI image 7 from the server 506 that has the same spatial position coordinates as the fluoroscopic image 520 generated in step 602.

[0164] In step 604, the control unit 504 performs control to superimpose the fluoroscopic image 520 onto the acquired CT image 6 or MRI image 7 and display it on the display unit 505.

[0165] In step 605, the control unit 504 performs control to obtain genetic information 540 that matches patient information 545 from the server.

[0166] In step 606, the control unit 504 controls the display unit 505 to display the superimposed image 530, which is obtained by superimposing the acquired gene information 540 with the CT image 6 or MRI image 7 and the fluoroscopic image 520.

[0167] (Effects of this embodiment) In this embodiment, the following effects can be obtained.

[0168] The stroke treatment support method of this embodiment comprises the steps of: measuring a biological sample 2 taken from patient 1 and generating gene-related information 240 related to susceptibility genes for stroke, as described above; setting patient 1's identification information 245a in the gene-related information 240, step 302; associating the set patient 1's identification information 245a with patient 1's identification information 245a stored in server 250, step 303; and managing gene-related information 240 by associating at least one of patient 1's identification information 245a stored in server 250 or patient information 245 of patient 1 related to patient 1's identification information 245a with gene-related information 240.

[0169] Furthermore, the stroke treatment support system 200 of this embodiment includes, as described above, a detection device 210 that measures a biological sample 2 taken from a patient 1 and generates gene-related information 240 related to susceptibility genes for stroke, and a server 250 (management unit 250) that stores the identification information 245a of the patient 1, is communicably connected to the detection device 210, associates the set identification information 245a of the patient 1 with the stored identification information 245a of the patient 1, and manages the gene-related information 240 by associating at least one of the stored identification information 245a of the patient 1 or the patient information 245 of the patient 1 related to the identification information 245a of the patient 1.

[0170] In the stroke treatment support method and stroke treatment support system 100 of this embodiment, with the above configuration, when treating a patient 1 with acute stroke, gene-related information 240 related to stroke susceptibility genes for patient 1 can be managed in association with patient 1's identification information 245a or patient information 245 of patient 1 stored in the server 250. This allows the physician to easily retrieve information related to stroke susceptibility genes for patient 1 being treated for stroke from the server 250. As a result, the handling of support information useful for identifying the type of stroke can be made easier.

[0171] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, additional effects can be obtained by configuring it as follows.

[0172] In other words, in the above embodiment, step 302, which involves setting the identification information 245a of patient 1 in the gene-related information 240, is performed by the detection device 210 that generates the gene-related information 240. With this configuration, the identification information 245a of patient 1 can be set on the spot when the gene-related information 240 is generated. As a result, compared to a configuration in which a doctor or other professional sets the identification information 245a of patient 1 in the gene-related information 240, the occurrence of setting errors can be suppressed.

[0173] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the gene-related information 240 includes first information 241 indicating whether or not the biological sample 2 has susceptibility genes related to cerebral infarction, and second information 242 related to susceptibility genes generated based on the first information 241. In step 304, in which the gene-related information 240 is managed in association with at least one of the patient identification information 245a or patient information 245 of patient 1 related to the patient identification information 245a stored in the server 250 (management unit 250), at least one of the patient identification information 245a or patient information 245 of patient 1 related to the patient identification information 245a stored in the server 250 is managed in association with at least one of the first information 241 and the second information 242. With this configuration, when treating a patient 1 with acute cerebral infarction, at least one of the first information 241 indicating whether or not patient 1 has susceptibility genes related to cerebral infarction, and the second information 242 generated based on the first information 241 can be associated with the patient information 245. As a result, during treatment, by transmitting the first information 241 or the second information 242 to the angiography device 270, the physician actually performing the treatment can select a treatment device for catheter treatment according to the type of cerebral infarction, taking into account the information based on the presence or absence of susceptibility genes. In this way, support information that helps physicians identify the type of cerebral infarction can be managed and provided to physicians during the treatment of cerebral infarction.

[0174] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the second information 242 includes at least one of the following: information 42a regarding the type of cerebral infarction, information 42b regarding the cerebrovascular system of patient 1, and information 42c indicating treatment devices that are recommended or not recommended for use in catheter treatment for cerebral infarction in patient 1. With this configuration, the second information 242, derived based on the first information 241 regarding whether or not a patient has susceptibility genes related to cerebral infarction, can provide particularly useful support information to physicians involved in the treatment of cerebral infarction.

[0175] Furthermore, the above embodiment further includes step 306 of transmitting at least one of the first information 241 and the second information 242 to the angiography X-ray imaging device 270 based on a request 206 from the angiography X-ray imaging device 270. With this configuration, since the first information 241 or the second information 242 is transmitted based on a request 206 from the angiography X-ray imaging device 270, a physician or other user can obtain the first information 241 or the second information 242 at any time by operating the angiography X-ray imaging device 270. As a result, the convenience of the user (physician, etc.) can be improved.

[0176] Furthermore, the above embodiment further includes step 402, which involves associating the second information 242 with the patient information 245, deleting the first information 241 after associating the second information 242 with the patient information 245, and storing the second information 242 in its associated state with the patient information 245. With this configuration, since the second information 242 and the patient information 245 are associated on the server 250, when treating patient 1, the second information 242 of patient 1 can be easily transmitted to the angiography X-ray imaging device 70 and / or the image viewing terminal 80. In addition, by deleting the first information 241 after associating the second information 242 with the patient information 245, it is possible to provide particularly useful support information to physicians involved in the treatment of cerebral infarction, and it is possible to prevent the first information 241, which requires careful handling for ethical reasons, from remaining on the server 250. Therefore, even in an emergency situation such as the treatment of patient 1 with acute ischemic stroke, it is possible to reliably provide the second information 242 to the physician without relying on unreliable means of communication such as verbal communication, and it is possible to suppress the leakage of the first information 241 from the server 250 or its dissemination to the outside.

[0177] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, in step 402, immediately after associating the second information 242 with the patient information 245, or after a predetermined period has elapsed, or based on information 208 from the angiography X-ray imaging device 270 indicating the completion of treatment, the first information 241 is deleted, and the second information 242 in its associated state with the patient information 245 is stored. With this configuration, if the first information 241 is deleted immediately after associating the second information 242 with the patient information 245, the diffusion of the first information 241 can be reliably suppressed. Also, if the first information 241 is deleted after a predetermined period has elapsed, the first information 241 can be presented to a doctor or other person when they directly check the first information 241 within the predetermined period. In addition, if the first information 241 is deleted based on information 208 from the angiography X-ray imaging device 270 indicating the completion of treatment, unlike a configuration in which the first information 241 is deleted by an operation by a doctor or other person, it is reliably prevented from remaining on the server 250 without being deleted.

[0178] Furthermore, the above embodiment further includes a step 411 in which the second information 242 is associated with the patient 1's CT image 6 or MRI image 7 using identification information 245a. With this configuration, by associating the second information 242 with the CT image 6 or MRI image 7, the second information 242 can be displayed together with the CT image 6 or MRI image 7 when it is displayed. As a result, when a doctor or other professional displays the CT image 6 or MRI image 7 during treatment, the second information 242 can be easily displayed together with the CT image 6 or MRI image 7.

[0179] Furthermore, the above embodiment further includes step 412 of transmitting the CT image 6 or MRI image 7 of patient 1 and the second information 242 to the angiography device 270 based on a request from the angiography device 270. With this configuration, for example, when diagnosing patient 1 who has developed a stroke, even if the second information 242 is not directly associated with the CT image 6 or MRI image 7, the server 250 can transmit the CT image 6 or MRI image 7 and the second information 242 to the angiography device 270. Therefore, the CT image 6 or MRI image 7 and the second information 242 can be reliably presented to the physician who is actually identifying the type of stroke.

[0180] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the susceptibility gene for cerebral infarction includes the RNF213p.R4810K gene polymorphism. With this configuration, first information 241, indicating whether or not the patient has the RNF213p.R4810K gene polymorphism, can be presented to the physician. Based on this first information 241, physicians can obtain useful insights for treatment, such as the fact that there is a significantly higher probability that the type of cerebral infarction that patient 1 has developed is atherothrombotic cerebral infarction, that the diameter of the major cerebral blood vessels tends to be small, and as a result, caution is required when using thrombectomy devices during catheter treatment, and if they are used, it is preferable to use a thrombectomy device with a smaller diameter than usual.

[0181] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the server 250 includes at least one of a hospital information system server (HIS server 254) and a radiology information system server (RIS server 252) connected to the hospital network. With this configuration, the generation and management of the second information 242 can be performed by a server (52 or 53) on an existing network built within the hospital. In addition, since the second information 242 can be managed in each of the above servers (52 or 53), the second information 242 can be easily provided during treatment by acquiring the second information 242 in the modality 105 (vascular X-ray imaging device 270 and / or image viewing terminal 80).

[0182] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the detection device 210 includes a gene amplification detection device 210 configured to perform a gene amplification process on a biological sample 2 containing a sample including blood or saliva collected from patient 1 and a reaction solution containing a component that suppresses the effect of inhibitory substances in the sample, and to perform a real-time PCR method in which a labeling process is performed with a labeling substance during the gene amplification process. With this configuration, the detection device 210 can directly measure the biological sample 2 collected from patient 1 and generate first information 241 without a purification process to remove inhibitory substances from the biological sample 2 and purify the genes. Therefore, compared to the case where a purification process is performed, a part of the pre-processing (purification process) for measurement by the detection device 210 is unnecessary, so first information 241 can be generated quickly. For this reason, the above configuration is particularly useful in emergency situations such as the treatment of patient 1 with acute cerebral infarction, as it allows for the provision of first information 241 to the physician as early as possible. In addition, it allows for the rapid generation of first information 241 compared to the normal (non-real-time) PCR method in which amplification is performed before labeling. Therefore, the above configuration is particularly useful in emergency situations, such as when treating patient 1 with acute ischemic stroke, as it allows for the provision of primary information 241 to the physician as early as possible.

[0183] [Differentiation] It should be noted that the embodiments disclosed herein are illustrative and not restrictive in all respects. The scope of the present invention is defined by the claims rather than by the description of the embodiments above, and further includes all modifications (exceptions) within the meaning and scope equivalent to the claims.

[0184] (First variation) For example, the above embodiment shows an example configuration in which the server 250 deletes the first information 241 based on the treatment completion information 208 after transmitting the first information 241 and / or the second information 242, but the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the server 250 may be configured to delete the first information 241 immediately after associating the second information 242 with the patient information 245.

[0185] Referring to Figure 20, the process by which the server 250 in the first modified example deletes the first information 241 and then transmits the second information 242 will be explained. Processes similar to those in the transmission process of the first information 241 and / or the second information 242 shown in Figure 12 are denoted by the same reference numerals, and detailed explanations are omitted.

[0186] In steps 301 to 304, the server 250 generates gene-related information 240 (first information 241 and second information 242) and associates the gene-related information 240 with at least one of the identification information 245a of patient 1 or the patient information 245 of patient 1 related to the identification information 240a of patient 1 that is stored in the server 250.

[0187] In step 307, server 250 deletes the first information 241.

[0188] In step 305, it is determined whether there is a request 206 from the angiography device 270. If there is a request 206 from the angiography device 270, the process proceeds to step 308. If there is no request 206 from the angiography device 270, the process ends.

[0189] In step 308, the server 250 transmits the second information 242 to the angiography device 270. After that, the process ends.

[0190] With the configuration described above, the first information 241 is deleted immediately after the second information 242 and the patient information 245 are associated, thus reliably preventing the dissemination of the first information 241.

[0191] (Second variation) Furthermore, while the above embodiment shows an example of a configuration in which the server 250 deletes the first information 241 based on information 208 indicating the completion of treatment, the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the server 250 may be configured to delete the first information 241 after a predetermined period of time has elapsed.

[0192] Referring to Figure 21, the deletion process for the first information 241 according to the second modified example will be explained. Note that processes similar to those in the deletion process for the first information 241 shown in Figure 13 are denoted by the same reference numerals, and detailed explanations are omitted.

[0193] In step 403, the server 250 associates the second information 242 with the patient information 245 and then determines whether a predetermined period has elapsed. If the predetermined period has elapsed, the process proceeds to step 402, the first information 241 is deleted, and the process ends. If the predetermined period has not elapsed, the server 250 repeats the process in step 403.

[0194] By configuring the system as described above, the first piece of information 241 is deleted after a predetermined period has elapsed. Therefore, if a doctor or other person wishes to directly access the first piece of information 241 within the predetermined period, they can be presented with the first piece of information 241.

[0195] (Other variations) Furthermore, while the above embodiment shows an example of a configuration in which step 302, in which the identification information 245a of patient 1 is set in the gene-related information 240, is performed by the detection device 210, the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, step 302, in which the identification information 245a of patient 1 is set in the gene-related information 240, may be performed by a terminal that receives the identification information 245a of patient 1 from the user. With this configuration, for example, if the detection device 210 is used standalone (independently) from the standpoint of protecting personal information, or if the detection device 210 cannot communicate with the server 250 (HIS server 254), the user can still set the identification information 245a of patient 1 in the gene-related information 240. As a result, the degree of freedom in selecting the detection device 210 can be improved.

[0196] Furthermore, while the above embodiment shows an example in which the server 250 associates patient information 245 with at least one of the first information 241 and the second information 242, the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the server 250 may be configured to associate patient information 245 with both the first information 241 and the second information 242.

[0197] Furthermore, while the above embodiment shows an example configuration in which the server 250 transmits at least one of the first information 241 and the second information 242 to the angiography apparatus 270 based on a request 206 from the angiography apparatus 270, the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the server 250 may be configured to transmit at least one of the first information 241 and the second information 242 to the angiography apparatus 270 even if it has not received a request 206 from the angiography apparatus 270. For example, the server 250 may be configured to associate patient information 245 with at least one of the first information 241 and the second information 242, and then transmit at least one of the first information 241 and the second information 242 to the angiography apparatus 270.

[0198] Furthermore, the above embodiment shows an example configuration in which the server 250 deletes the first information 241 after associating the second information 242 with the patient information 245, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, if the first information 241 is encrypted or otherwise protected so that a third party cannot grasp the details of the first information 241 even if it is leaked to the outside, the first information 241 does not need to be deleted. However, even if the first information 241 is encrypted, there is still a possibility that a third party may grasp the first information 241, so it is better to delete the first information 241.

[0199] Furthermore, while the above embodiment shows an example configuration in which server 250 includes RIS server 252, DICOM server 253, and HIS server 254, the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, server 250 may include a Clinical Laboratory Information System server or the like.

[0200] Furthermore, although the above embodiment shows an example of a configuration in which the second information 242 is associated with the CT image 6 or MRI image 7, the present invention is not limited thereto. The second information 242 does not have to be associated with the CT image 6 or MRI image 7. Also, the first information 241 may be associated with the CT image 6 or MRI image 7.

[0201] Furthermore, while the above embodiment shows an example in which the second information 242 includes at least one of the information 42a regarding the type of cerebral infarction, the information 42b regarding cerebral blood vessels, and the device information 42c, the present invention is not limited thereto. The second information 242 may include information other than the above-mentioned information, as long as it is information derived from the first information 241.

[0202] Furthermore, although the above embodiment shows an example where the detection device 210 is a direct PCR device, the present invention is not limited thereto. The detection device 210 may perform PCR processing on a biological sample 2 prepared by a purification process to purify DNA from a sample 2a.

[0203] Furthermore, although the above embodiment shows an example in which the detection device 210 performs real-time PCR, the present invention is not limited thereto. The detection device 210 may be configured to perform non-real-time PCR.

[0204] [Aspect] Those skilled in the art will understand that the exemplary embodiments described above are specific examples of the following embodiments.

[0205] (Item 1) The process involves measuring a biological sample taken from a patient and generating gene-related information associated with susceptibility genes for cerebral infarction, The steps include setting the patient's identification information in the gene-related information, The steps include: associating the set patient identification information with the patient identification information stored in the management unit; A method for supporting the treatment of cerebral infarction, comprising the step of associating and managing at least one of the patient identification information or patient information relating to the patient identification information stored in the management unit with the gene-related information.

[0206] (Item 2) The method for supporting the treatment of cerebral infarction according to item 1, wherein the step of setting the patient's identification information in the gene-related information is performed by a detection device that generates the gene-related information.

[0207] (Item 3) The method for supporting the treatment of cerebral infarction according to item 1, wherein the step of setting the patient's identification information in the gene-related information is performed by a terminal that receives input of the patient's identification information from a user.

[0208] (Item 4) The gene-related information includes first information on whether the biological sample has the susceptibility gene for cerebral infarction, and second information related to the susceptibility gene generated based on the first information. A method for supporting the treatment of cerebral infarction, according to any one of items 1 to 3, wherein in the step of managing the gene-related information in association with at least one of the patient identification information or patient information relating to the patient identification information stored in the management unit, the method further comprises managing the gene-related information in association with at least one of the first information and the second information, wherein the method involves managing the gene-related information in association with at least one of the patient identification information or patient information relating to the patient stored in the management unit.

[0209] (Item 5) The method for supporting the treatment of cerebral infarction according to item 4, wherein the second information includes at least one of the following: information regarding the type of cerebral infarction; information regarding the patient's cerebrovascular system; and information indicating treatment devices that are recommended or not recommended for use in catheter treatment of cerebral infarction in the patient.

[0210] (Item 6) A method for supporting the treatment of cerebral infarction according to item 4 or 5, further comprising the step of transmitting at least one of the first information and the second information to a device used for treating the patient, based on a request from the device used for treating the patient.

[0211] (Item 7) A method for supporting the treatment of cerebral infarction according to any one of items 4 to 6, further comprising the steps of associating the second information with the patient information, deleting the first information after associating the second information with the patient information, and storing the second information in the state associated with the patient information.

[0212] (Item 8) The stroke treatment support method according to item 7, comprising the steps of associating the second information with the patient information, deleting the first information after associating the second information with the patient information, and storing the second information in the state associated with the patient information, wherein the first information is deleted immediately after associating the second information with the patient information, or after a predetermined period of time has elapsed, or based on information from a device used to treat the patient indicating the end of treatment, and the second information in the state associated with the patient information is stored.

[0213] (Item 9) A stroke treatment support system according to item 7 or 8, further comprising the step of associating the second information with the patient's CT image or MRI image using the identification information.

[0214] (Item 10) The stroke treatment support system according to item 9, further comprising the step of transmitting a CT image or MRI image of the patient and the second information to a device used for treating the patient, based on a request from the device used for treating the patient.

[0215] (Item 11) The susceptibility gene for cerebral infarction includes the RNF213p.R4810K gene polymorphism, as described in any one of items 1 to 10, for the treatment support method for cerebral infarction.

[0216] (Item 12) A detection device that measures biological samples taken from patients and generates gene-related information associated with susceptibility genes for cerebral infarction, A stroke treatment support system comprising a management unit that stores the patient's identification information, is communicably connected to the detection device, associates the set patient's identification information with the stored patient's identification information, and manages at least one of the stored patient's identification information or the patient's patient information relating to the patient's identification information with the gene-related information.

[0217] (Item 13) The management unit includes a server that stores the patient information, The stroke treatment support system according to item 12, wherein the server includes at least one of a hospital information system server and a radiology department information system server connected to the hospital network.

[0218] (Item 14) The stroke treatment support system according to item 12 or 13, comprising a gene amplification detection device configured to perform a gene amplification process on a biological sample containing a sample including blood or saliva collected from the patient and a reaction solution containing a component that suppresses the effects of inhibitory substances in the sample, and to perform a real-time PCR method in which a labeling process is performed with a labeling substance during the gene amplification process. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0219] 1 patient 2. Biological samples 6 CT characters 7 MRI images 200 Stroke Treatment Support System 206 Request (Request from the treatment device) 208 Information indicating completion of treatment 210 Detection device 240 Gene-related information 241 1st information 242 Second information 245 Patient Information 245a Identification Information 250 Servers (Administration Department) 252 RIS Server (Radiology Information System Server) 253 DICOM Server (Medical Image Management System Server) 254 HIS Server (Hospital Information System Server) 270. Angiography equipment (device used for patient treatment)

Claims

1. The detection device measures a biological sample taken from a patient and generates gene-related information including first information on whether or not the biological sample has susceptibility genes related to cerebral infarction. The detection device includes the step of linking the patient's identification information to the gene-related information, The management unit performs the step of associating the patient identification information linked to the gene-related information with the patient identification information stored in the management unit, The management unit associates at least one of the patient identification information or patient information of the patient corresponding to the patient identification information stored in the management unit with second information generated based on the first information, which includes at least one of the following: information regarding the type of cerebral infarction, information regarding the patient's cerebrovascular system, and information indicating treatment devices that are recommended or not recommended for use in catheter treatment for the patient's cerebral infarction. The management unit, after associating the second information with the patient's identification information or the patient's patient information, deletes the first information stored in the management unit, and stores and manages the second information in the state associated with the patient's identification information or the patient's patient information. The management unit receives patient identification information transmitted from a device used for diagnosing or treating the patient's cerebral infarction, The management unit identifies the patient identification information stored in the management unit that corresponds to the patient identification information transmitted from the device used for diagnosing or treating the patient's stroke, A method for supporting the treatment of cerebral infarction, comprising the step of the management unit transmitting the gene-related information, which is managed in association with the patient identification information stored in the management unit that it has identified, to a device used for diagnosing or treating cerebral infarction in the patient.

2. The method for supporting the treatment of cerebral infarction according to claim 1, wherein the management unit associates the second information with the patient information, deletes the first information stored in the management unit after associating the second information with the patient information, and stores the second information in the state associated with the patient information, wherein the management unit deletes the first information stored in the management unit and stores the second information in the state associated with the patient information immediately after associating the second information with the patient information, or after a predetermined period of time has elapsed, or based on information from the device used to treat the patient indicating the end of treatment, and stores the second information in the state associated with the patient information.

3. The method for supporting the treatment of cerebral infarction according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising the step of the management unit associating the second information with the patient's CT image or MRI image using the identification information.

4. The stroke treatment support method according to claim 3, further comprising the step of the management unit transmitting the patient's CT image or MRI image and the second information to the device used for diagnosing or treating the patient's stroke, based on a request from the device.

5. The method for supporting the treatment of cerebral infarction according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the susceptibility gene for cerebral infarction includes the gene polymorphism RNF213p.R4810K.

6. A detection device that measures a biological sample taken from a patient and generates gene-related information including first information on whether or not the biological sample has susceptibility genes related to cerebral infarction, The system includes a management unit that stores the patient identification information, is communicably connected to the detection device, associates the patient identification information linked to the gene-related information with the stored patient identification information, associates at least one of the stored patient identification information or the patient's patient information corresponding to the patient identification information with second information generated based on the first information, which includes at least one of the following: information regarding the type of cerebral infarction, information regarding the patient's cerebrovascular system, and information indicating treatment devices that are recommended or not recommended for use in catheter treatment for cerebral infarction in the patient, and stores and manages the second information in its associated state with the patient identification information or the patient's patient information. A stroke treatment support system configured such that the management unit, after associating the second information with the patient's identification information or the patient's patient information, deletes the first information stored in the management unit, receives the patient's identification information transmitted from a device used for diagnosing or treating the patient's stroke, identifies the patient's identification information stored in the management unit that corresponds to the received patient's identification information transmitted from the device used for diagnosing or treating the patient's stroke, and transmits the gene-related information managed in association with the identified patient's identification information stored in the management unit to the device used for diagnosing or treating the patient's stroke.

7. The management unit includes a server that stores the patient information, The stroke treatment support system according to claim 6, wherein the server includes at least one of a hospital information system server and a radiology department information system server connected to the hospital network.

8. The stroke treatment support system according to claim 6 or 7, wherein the detection device includes a gene amplification detection device configured to perform a gene amplification process on the biological sample containing a sample including blood or saliva collected from the patient and a reaction solution containing a component that suppresses the effects of inhibitory substances in the sample, and to perform a real-time PCR method in which a labeling process is performed with a labeling substance during the gene amplification process.

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