Ensemble Deep Learning Models for Early Detection of Meningitis in ICU: Multi-center Study

Abstract

The stacking ensemble combining RF, LightGBM, and DNN performed well on internal test sets, exhibiting an NPV greater than 99.9% even with substantial class imbalance. While performance was lower on the external eICU cohort compared to the internal test sets, sensitivity remained robust. Therefore, the stacking ensemble may serve as a rule-out screening option for ERs and ICUs after additional prospective multi-site validation studies for its efficacy in real-world.