Enterprise AI Analysis

Adaptive diagnostic reasoning framework for pathology with multimodal large language models

Artificial intelligence enhances pathology screening efficiency, yet clinical adoption remains limited because most systems operate as opaque black boxes. We aim to resolve this opacity by establishing a framework that generates transparent, evidence-linked reasoning to support diagnostic auditing. We present a framework that shifts off-the-shelf multimodal large language models from passive pattern recognition to active diagnostic reasoning. Using small labeled subsets from breast and prostate cancer datasets, we employ a two-phase self-learning process to derive diagnostic criteria without updating model weights. We integrate expert feedback from board-certified pathologists to ensure the generated descriptions align with established medical standards. Our framework produces audit-ready rationales while achieving over 90% accuracy in distinguishing normal tissue from invasive carcinoma. Beyond binary classification, the model effectively differentiates complex subtypes like ductal carcinoma in situ by autonomously identifying hallmark histological features, including nuclear irregularities and structural disruption. These computer-generated descriptions closely match expert assessments. Our approach delivers substantial performance gains over conventional baselines and adapts effectively across diverse tissue types and independent foundation models. By uniting visual understanding with reasoning, our framework provides a promising approach for clinically trustworthy artificial intelligence. This framework helps bridge the gap between opaque classifiers and auditable systems, suggesting a viable path toward evidence-linked interpretation in medical workflows. Computer programs can assist pathologists in examining tissue samples to detect cancer, but these tools often fail to explain how they reach their conclusions. We developed a new method to make this process transparent. A key innovation of our approach is that the system automatically learns the specific criteria for diagnosing cancer on its own by analyzing tissue images, rather than relying on pre-programmed rules. We tested this on breast and prostate samples, and the system successfully identified cancer while providing clear written descriptions of cell abnormalities that matched the assessments of specialist doctors. This research demonstrates that computers can be accurate and provide understandable reasoning, allowing doctors to verify automated results and ensuring safer evaluations for patients.