Utilizing Iris Image Analysis for Screening Lung Diseases: A Retrospective Controlled Study

This study investigates the correlation between connective tissue density in the iris's lung region and respiratory diseases, assessing the potential use of iris images for screening lung diseases. Iris images from 375 patients collected between 2019 and 2021 were categorized into lung disease and control groups based on medical history. Two iridology experts independently evaluated lacunas, crypts, and pigment spots, showing substantial agreement (kappa values: 0.76 for lacunas, 0.73 for crypts, and 0.74 for pigment spots). The lung disease group (n=60) demonstrated a higher prevalence of lacunae, crypts, and pigment spots in the iris's lung region compared to the control group (n=315). Statistically significant findings were noted for crypts (p=0.004, odds ratio=2.29), with increased significance when considering all indices (p=0.000, odds ratio=3.38). According to the results, individuals with lower tissue density in the iris's lung region appear to be more susceptible to lung diseases. A subsequent investigation is imperative to elucidate these findings further.