New trends in Pathology (Part 2)
Written by Ilgar Guseinov on 13.12.2022
Now we come to the most interesting part, the device and approach that has turned the idea of the possibilities of work in clinical pathology.
A whole slide scanner is a type of digital imaging system (also known as virtual microscopes or digital slide scanners) that allows for the capture of high-resolution digital images of tissue samples. These images can then be analyzed and used for diagnostic, research, and educational purposes. Whole slide scanners are becoming increasingly important in the field of pathology, which is the study of diseases and the effects they have on the body.
One of the main benefits of whole slide scanners is their ability to store and access large numbers of slides digitally, rather than having to physically handle and store glass slides. This not only saves space and reduces the risk of damage or loss, but it also allows for more efficient and convenient sharing of slides with colleagues and collaborators.
Whole slide scanners can be used in a variety of settings, including research labs, hospitals, and pathology departments. They are often used for analyzing tissue samples for diagnostic purposes, such as identifying cancerous cells or other abnormalities. They can also be used for research purposes, such as studying the effects of drugs or other treatments on tissue samples.
One of the key features of whole slide scanners is their high resolution and image quality. Many scanners can capture images with resolutions up to 40x the resolution of a traditional light microscope, allowing for highly detailed and accurate analysis. Some scanners even have built-in image analysis software that can automatically identify and analyze specific features within the tissue, such as blood vessels or cells.
Figure 1: Comparison of the maximum field of view in the microscope lens [1] and the whole slide image
Another advantage of whole slide scanners is their speed and efficiency. Traditional microscopes require manual handling and movement of the slides, which can be time-consuming and prone to error. With a whole slide scanner, a single operator can scan multiple slides in a short amount of time, with minimal risk of error. This makes it possible to process and analyze large numbers of slides in a short period of time, improving efficiency and productivity.
Not every hospital has the ability to perform such examinations on its own. In the #med4PAN project, we are developing different ways of using whole slide scanners to increase the efficiency and accessibility to comprehensive medical care. For example, we are creating conditions for full interaction between physicians of different specialties and pathologists, as well as remote consulting and training in the field of digital pathology.
Other solutions are also available for fast and cost-effective digital implementations:
1. Simple microscope camera + imaging software for image capture
2. Microscope camera with a network port allowing for live streaming
3. Live remote control telepathology system
You can learn more in this podcast: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=alFrLZRt5kE
Overall, whole slide scanners are an important tool for researchers and pathologists, providing a convenient and efficient way to digitize and analyze tissue slides. With their high resolution and image quality, and their ability to quickly process large numbers of slides, whole slide scanners are becoming increasingly popular and are likely to continue to play a key role in research and diagnostic applications in the future.
References:
[1] Patel, A., Balis, U. G., Cheng, J., Li, Z., Lujan, G., McClintock, D. S., ... & Parwani, A. (2021). Contemporary whole slide imaging devices and their applications within the modern pathology department: A selected hardware review. Journal of Pathology Informatics, 12(1), 50.