Developmental trends and knowledge frameworks in the application of radiomics in prostate cancer: a bibliometric analysis from 2000 to 2024

BackgroundThis research utilized the bibliometrics method to analyze the published literature related to prostate cancer (PCa) imaging. Furthermore, current knowledge and research hotspots of radiomics in PCa diagnosis and treatment were comprehensively reviewed, as well as progress and emerging trends in field were explored.MethodsIn this investigation, the relevant literature on radiomics, and PCa was retrieved from Web of Science Core Collection (WoSCC) databases from 2000 and 2024. Furthermore, a comprehensive bibliometric analysis was carried out using advanced tools like CiteSpace6.2, VOS viewer, and the 'bibliometrix' package of R software to visualize the annual distribution of publications across various aspects such as authors, countries, journals, institutions, and keywords.ResultsThis analysis included 593 from 58 countries including China and the United States. Chinese Academy of Sciences and Frontiers in Oncology were the institutions and journals that publish the most relevant articles, -while Radiology journal had the greatest number of co-cited publications. Furthermore, 3,621 authors published on this topic, of which Madabhushi Anant and Stoyanova Radka had the highest contributions. Moreover, Lambin, P. had the most co-citations. In addition, the diagnostic characteristics of radiomics in PCa imaging and treatment strategies are the current research focal points. The establishment of multi-functional imaging techniques and independent factor models warrants future investigation.ConclusionsIn summary, this analysis revealed that the research on PCa imaging is developing vigorously, focusing on the diagnostic methods and intervention measures of imaging in PCa diagnosis and treatment. In the future, there is an urgent need for improved collaboration and communication among countries and institutions.