Parallel interval-based reasoning in medical knowledge-based system CLINAID (Q1899460)

In a series of papers, see, e.g., the preceding entry Zbl 0828.92020, we have described the conceptual structures as well as the basic architecture of a knowledge-based system CLINAID. Its architecture is aimed at supporting not only diagnosis but also other types of clinical activity and decision making in diverse clinical and/or hospital environments. The aim of the generic architecture of CLINAID is to support knowledge-based decision making under conditions of risk and uncertainty, both of which are present in clinical medicine. Such a system has to operate in a multi-environment situation and make decisions within a multiplicity of contexts. The basic architecture consists of the following cooperating units (basic shell substratum): 1. Diagnostic unit (comprised of several parallel cooperating centres). 2. Treatment recommendation unit. 3. Patient clinical record unit. 4. Coordination and planning unit. As CLINAID attempts to be a comprehensive medical consultation system, its knowledge has to contain a large amount of medical expert knowledge. The Diagnostic unit of CLINAID deals with a number of body systems. In this paper we use the cardiovascular body system knowledge base of CLINAID to provide concrete examples.