MAL-Net: A Multi-Label Deep Learning Framework Integrating LSTM and Multi-Head Attention for Enhanced Classification of IgA Nephropathy Subtypes Using Clinical Sensor Data.

BACKGROUND

IgA nephropathy (IgAN) is a leading cause of renal failure, characterized by significant clinical and pathological heterogeneity. Accurate subtype classification remains challenging due to overlapping clinical manifestations and the multidimensional nature of data. Traditional methods often fail to fully capture IgAN's complexity, limiting their clinical applicability. This study introduces MAL-Net, a deep learning framework for multi-label classification of IgAN subtypes, leveraging multidimensional clinical data and incorporating sensor-based inputs such as laboratory indices and symptom tracking.

METHODS

MAL-Net integrates Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) networks with Multi-Head Attention (MHA) mechanisms to effectively capture sequential and contextual dependencies in clinical data. A memory network module extracts features from clinical sensors and records, while the MHA module emphasizes critical features and mitigates class imbalance. The model was trained and validated on clinical data from 500 IgAN patients, incorporating demographic, laboratory, and symptomatic variables. Performance was evaluated against six baseline models, including traditional machine learning and deep learning approaches.

RESULTS

MAL-Net outperformed all baseline models, achieving 91% accuracy and an AUC of 0.97. The integration of MHA significantly enhanced classification performance, particularly for underrepresented subtypes. The F1-score for the Ni-du subtype improved by 0.8, demonstrating the model's ability to address class imbalance and improve precision.

CONCLUSIONS

MAL-Net provides a robust solution for multi-label IgAN subtype classification, tackling challenges such as data heterogeneity, class imbalance, and feature interdependencies. By integrating clinical sensor data, MAL-Net enhances IgAN subtype prediction, supporting early diagnosis, personalized treatment, and improved prognosis evaluation.