Multi-threshold Image Segmentation based on an improved Salp Swarm Algorithm: Case study of breast cancer pathology images

Breast cancer poses a significant risk to women's health, and it is essential to provide proper diagnostic support. Medical image processing technology is a key component of all supporting diagnostic techniques, with Image Segmentation (IS) being one of its primary steps. Among various methods, Multilevel Image Segmentation (MIS) is considered one of the most effective and straightforward approaches. Many researchers have attempted to improve the quality of image segmentation by combining different metaheuristic algorithms with MIS. However, these methods often suffer from issues such as low convergence accuracy and a proclivity for converging towards Local Optima (LO). To overcome these challenges, this study introduces an integrated approach that combines the Salp Swarm Algorithm (SSA), Slime Mould Algorithm (SMA) and Differential Evolution (DE) algorithm. In this manuscript, we introduce an innovative hybrid MIS model termed SDSSA, which leverages elements from the SSA, SMA and DE algorithms. The SDSSA model fundamentally relies on non-local means 2D histogram and 2D Kapur's entropy. To evaluate the proposed method effectively, we compare it initially with similar algorithms using the IEEE CEC2014 benchmark functions. The SDSSA showcases enhanced convergence velocity and precision relative to similar algorithms. Furthermore, this paper proposes an excellent MIS method. Subsequently, IS experiments were conducted separately at both low and high threshold levels. The test results demonstrate that the segmentation outcomes of MIS, at both low and high threshold levels, outperform other methods. This validates SDSSA as a superior segmentation technique that provides practical assistance for future research in breast cancer pathology image processing.