KIRON: A computer system and a methodology applicable to the study of erythroid disorders

A methodology for the study of erythroid disorders by means of mathematical models and classification techniques is proposed, and KIRON, a comprehensive computer system for patient data entry, management, and analysis is described. KIRON is used in a hematologic laboratory for accurate collection of patient data and for conversational access to the data for processing with model-based parameter estimation techniques, statistical descriptive, multivariate, and pattern-recognition techniques. The user-interface software is designed for convenience of a noncomputer-expert user throughout the whole range of functions performed by the system. System application (a) in the data collection routine, (b) for improving the diagnostic process in clinical routine, (c) for developing a data bank oriented to the study of erythroid disorders, and (d) for analyzing the data bank through the exploratory research strategy are discussed. The system software is entirely written in Fortran and operates under the time-sharing system of a Honeywell 6040 computer. © 1982.