Case Representation and Retrieval in the Diagnosis and Treatment of Obstructive Sleep Apnea : A Semio-fuzzy Approach

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a common sleep disorder, especially in middle-aged and obese patients. However, the diagnosis and treatment of OSA is complex, particularly in patients with mild or moderate symptoms and co-occurring medical problems. Furthermore, sleep disorders are interconnected with diverse factors, such life style, shift work, and psychological problems. Case-based reasoning (CBR) is a natural approach in such a highly complex domain. CBR allows for the retrieval and analysis of successful outcomes, as well as, failures in treatment. To address the complexity of the domain knowledge, the authors applied a semio-fuzzy framework, an approach combining fuzzy logic and semiotics, in the development of a prototype CBR system. The system has been implemented in an educational sleep disorders clinic to assist respiratory students in the retrieval of prototypical cases, and has been particularly helpful in the analysis of co-occurring medical problems and the treatment process.