Skin cancer classification using non-local means denoising and sparse dictionary learning based CNN

Abstract Skin conditions are becoming increasingly prevalent across the world in current times. With the rise in dermatological disorders, there is a need for computerized techniques that are completely noninvasive to patients’ skin. As a result, deep learning models have become standard for the computerized detection of skin diseases. The performance efficiency of these models improves with access to more data with their primary aim being image classification. In this paper, we present a skin disease detection methodology using image processing techniques, non-local means denoising and convolutional neural network (CNN) backed by sparse dictionary learning. Here, the major benefit of using NLM denoising followed by sparse dictionary learning with CNNs in image classification lies in leveraging a multi-stage approach that enhances the quality of input data, extracts meaningful and discriminative features, and improves the overall performance of the classification model. This combined approach addresses challenges such as noise robustness, feature extraction, and classification accuracy, making it particularly effective in complex image analysis tasks. For denoising, the average Peak Signal to Noise Ratio (PSNR) obtained for images from HAM-10000 dataset is 33.59 dB. For the ISIC-2019 dataset, the average PSNR for the train folder is 34.37 dB, and for the test folder it is 34.39 dB. The deep learning network is trained for the analysis of skin cancer images using a CNN model and is achieving acceptable results in classifying skin cancer types. The datasets used contain high-resolution images. After all the tests, the accuracy obtained is 85.61% for the HAM-10000 dataset and 81.23% for the ISIC-2019 dataset, which is on par with existing approaches validated by benchmarking results.