A Real-Time Medical Image Encryption Algorithm Leveraging a Novel Hypersensitive Chaotic Map

Chaos-based encryption has emerged as a promising approach for securing digital images, particularly in sensitive domains such as medical imaging. However, existing chaos-based encryption algorithms often suffer from design flaws and the use of weak chaotic maps that exhibit limited chaotic ranges and vulnerability to signal estimation. These limitations result in insufficient key space, reduced resistance to statistical and differential attacks, and inefficiency in real-time applications. To address these challenges, this study introduces a novel 1D Cosine-Exponential (1DCE) map, a hypersensitive chaotic map characterized by enhanced chaotic behavior and robustness. Leveraging the 1DCE map, we propose a real-time image encryption algorithm, termed DCEIES, which incorporates a cross-row-column encryption strategy to significantly improve both encryption speed and security. The DCEIES algorithm also integrates a novel image sensitivity function that detects any alterations in the plain image, rendering the cryptosystem resistant to differential attacks. While the DCEIES algorithm is versatile and applicable to various types of images, its design is particularly optimized for medical imaging, where high pixel correlations and sensitivity to input changes are critical. Extensive simulations and security analyses demonstrate that the DCEIES algorithm outperforms state-of-the-art encryption algorithms in terms of high security and computational efficiency. The results highlight the potential of the DCEIES algorithm for real-time medical image encryption.