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Ardon O, Asa SL, Lloyd MC, Lujan G, Parwani A, Santa-Rosario JC, Van Meter B, Samboy J, Pirain D, Blakely S, Hanna MG. Understanding the financial aspects of digital pathology: A dynamic customizable return on investment calculator for informed decision-making. J Pathol Inform 2024; 15:100376. [PMID: 38736870 PMCID: PMC11087961 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpi.2024.100376] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2024] [Accepted: 04/05/2024] [Indexed: 05/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Background The adoption of digital pathology has transformed the field of pathology, however, the economic impact and cost analysis of implementing digital pathology solutions remain a critical consideration for institutions to justify. Digital pathology implementation requires a thorough evaluation of associated costs and should identify and optimize resource allocation to facilitate informed decision-making. A dynamic cost calculator to estimate the financial implications of deploying digital pathology systems was needed to estimate the financial effects on transitioning to a digital workflow. Methods A systematic approach was used to comprehensively assess the various components involved in implementing and maintaining a digital pathology system. This consisted of: (1) identification of key cost categories associated with digital pathology implementation; (2) data collection and analysis of cost estimation; (3) cost categorization and quantification of direct and indirect costs associated with different use cases, allowing customization of each factor based on specific intended uses and market rates, industry standards, and regional variations; (4) opportunities for savings realized by digitization of glass slides and (5) integration of the cost calculator into a unified framework for a holistic view of the financial implications associated with digital pathology implementation. The online tool enables the user to test various scenarios specific to their institution and provides adjustable parameters to assure organization specific relatability. Results The Digital Pathology Association has developed a web-based calculator as a companion tool to provide an exhaustive list of the necessary concepts needed when assessing the financial implications of transitioning to a digital pathology system. The dynamic return on investment (ROI) calculator successfully integrated relevant cost and cost-saving components associated with digital pathology implementation and maintenance. Considerations include factors such as digital pathology infrastructure, clinical operations, staffing, hardware and software, information technology, archive and retrieval, medical-legal, and potential reimbursements. The ROI calculator developed for digital pathology workflows offers a comprehensive, customizable tool for institutions to assess their anticipated upfront and ongoing annual costs as they start or expand their digital pathology journey. It also offers cost-savings analysis based on specific user case volume, institutional geographic considerations, and actual costs. In addition, the calculator also serves as a tool to estimate number of required whole slide scanners, scanner throughput, and data storage (TB). This tool is intended to estimate the potential costs and cost savings resulting from the transition to digital pathology for business plan justifications and return on investment calculations. Conclusions The digital pathology online cost calculator provides a comprehensive and reliable means of estimating the financial implications associated with implementing and maintaining a digital pathology system. By considering various cost factors and allowing customization based on institution-specific variables, the calculator empowers pathology laboratories, healthcare institutions, and administrators to make informed decisions and optimize resource allocation when adopting or expanding digital pathology technologies. The ROI calculator will enable healthcare institutions to assess the financial feasibility and potential return on investment on adopting digital pathology, facilitating informed decision-making and resource allocation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Orly Ardon
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, 10065, USA
| | - Sylvia L. Asa
- University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland OH 44106, USA
| | | | - Giovanni Lujan
- Department of Pathology, Wexner Medical Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Anil Parwani
- Department of Pathology, Wexner Medical Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Matthew G. Hanna
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, 10065, USA
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Kildal W, Cyll K, Kalsnes J, Islam R, Julbø FM, Pradhan M, Ersvær E, Shepherd N, Vlatkovic L, Tekpli X, Garred Ø, Kristensen GB, Askautrud HA, Hveem TS, Danielsen HE. Deep learning for automated scoring of immunohistochemically stained tumour tissue sections - Validation across tumour types based on patient outcomes. Heliyon 2024; 10:e32529. [PMID: 39040241 PMCID: PMC11261074 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e32529] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2024] [Accepted: 06/05/2024] [Indexed: 07/24/2024] Open
Abstract
We aimed to develop deep learning (DL) models to detect protein expression in immunohistochemically (IHC) stained tissue-sections, and to compare their accuracy and performance with manually scored clinically relevant proteins in common cancer types. Five cancer patient cohorts (colon, two prostate, breast, and endometrial) were included. We developed separate DL models for scoring IHC-stained tissue-sections with nuclear, cytoplasmic, and membranous staining patterns. For training, we used images with annotations of cells with positive and negative staining from the colon cohort stained for Ki-67 and PMS2 (nuclear model), the prostate cohort 1 stained for PTEN (cytoplasmic model) and β-catenin (membranous model). The nuclear DL model was validated for MSH6 in the colon, MSH6 and PMS2 in the endometrium, Ki-67 and CyclinB1 in prostate, and oestrogen and progesterone receptors in the breast cancer cohorts. The cytoplasmic DL model was validated for PTEN and Mapre2, and the membranous DL model for CD44 and Flotillin1, all in prostate cohorts. When comparing the results of manual and DL scores in the validation sets, using manual scores as the ground truth, we observed an average correct classification rate of 91.5 % (76.9-98.5 %) for the nuclear model, 85.6 % (73.3-96.6 %) for the cytoplasmic model, and 78.4 % (75.5-84.3 %) for the membranous model. In survival analyses, manual and DL scores showed similar prognostic impact, with similar hazard ratios and p-values for all DL models. Our findings demonstrate that DL models offer a promising alternative to manual IHC scoring, providing efficiency and reproducibility across various data sources and markers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wanja Kildal
- Institute for Cancer Genetics and Informatics, Oslo University Hospital, NO-0424, Oslo, Norway
| | - Karolina Cyll
- Institute for Cancer Genetics and Informatics, Oslo University Hospital, NO-0424, Oslo, Norway
| | - Joakim Kalsnes
- Institute for Cancer Genetics and Informatics, Oslo University Hospital, NO-0424, Oslo, Norway
| | - Rakibul Islam
- Institute for Cancer Genetics and Informatics, Oslo University Hospital, NO-0424, Oslo, Norway
| | - Frida M. Julbø
- Institute for Cancer Genetics and Informatics, Oslo University Hospital, NO-0424, Oslo, Norway
| | - Manohar Pradhan
- Institute for Cancer Genetics and Informatics, Oslo University Hospital, NO-0424, Oslo, Norway
| | - Elin Ersvær
- Institute for Cancer Genetics and Informatics, Oslo University Hospital, NO-0424, Oslo, Norway
| | - Neil Shepherd
- Gloucestershire Cellular Pathology Laboratory, Gloucester, GL53 7AN, UK
| | - Ljiljana Vlatkovic
- Institute for Cancer Genetics and Informatics, Oslo University Hospital, NO-0424, Oslo, Norway
| | - OSBREAC
- Institute for Cancer Genetics and Informatics, Oslo University Hospital, NO-0424, Oslo, Norway
- Gloucestershire Cellular Pathology Laboratory, Gloucester, GL53 7AN, UK
- Department of Medical Genetics, Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo and Oslo University Hospital, NO-0450, Oslo, Norway
- Department of Pathology, Oslo University Hospital, NO-0424, Oslo, Norway
- Nuffield Division of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, OX3 9DU, UK
| | - Xavier Tekpli
- Department of Medical Genetics, Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo and Oslo University Hospital, NO-0450, Oslo, Norway
| | - Øystein Garred
- Department of Pathology, Oslo University Hospital, NO-0424, Oslo, Norway
| | - Gunnar B. Kristensen
- Institute for Cancer Genetics and Informatics, Oslo University Hospital, NO-0424, Oslo, Norway
| | - Hanne A. Askautrud
- Institute for Cancer Genetics and Informatics, Oslo University Hospital, NO-0424, Oslo, Norway
| | - Tarjei S. Hveem
- Institute for Cancer Genetics and Informatics, Oslo University Hospital, NO-0424, Oslo, Norway
| | - Håvard E. Danielsen
- Institute for Cancer Genetics and Informatics, Oslo University Hospital, NO-0424, Oslo, Norway
- Nuffield Division of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, OX3 9DU, UK
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3
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Eloy C, Vale J, Barros M, Oliveira D, Mesquita M, Curado M, Pinto J, Polónia A. Optimizing the management of thyroid specimens to efficiently generate whole slide images for diagnosis. Virchows Arch 2024; 485:75-82. [PMID: 38353775 PMCID: PMC11271424 DOI: 10.1007/s00428-024-03762-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2023] [Revised: 01/20/2024] [Accepted: 02/04/2024] [Indexed: 07/20/2024]
Abstract
Transition from optical to digital observation requires an additional procedure in the pathology laboratory, the scanning of glass slides, leading to increased time and digital archive consumption. Thyroid surgical samples often carry the need to collect several tissue fragments that generate many slides to be scanned. This study evaluated the impact of using different inking colours for the surgical margin, section thickness, and glass slide type, in the consumption of time and archive. The series comprehended 40 nodules from 30 patients, including 34 benign nodules in follicular nodular disease, 1 NIFTP, and 5 papillary carcinomas. In 12 nodules, the dominant pattern was microfollicular/solid and in 28 it was macrofollicular. Scanning times/mm2 were longer in red-inked fragments in comparison to green (p = 0.04) and black ones (p = 0.024), and in blue-inked in comparison to green ones (p = 0.043). File sizes/mm2 were larger in red-inked fragments in comparison to green (p = 0.008) and black ones (p = 0.002). The dominant pattern microfollicular/solid was associated with bigger file size/mm2 in comparison with the macrofollicular one (p < 0.001). All scanner outputs increase significantly with the thickness of the section. All scanning outputs increase with the usage of adhesive glass slides in comparison to non-adhesive ones. Small interventions in thyroid sample management that can help optimizing the digital workflow include to prefer black and green inking colours for the surgical margins and 2 µm section in non-adhesive glass slides for increased efficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catarina Eloy
- Pathology Department, Medical Faculty of University of Porto, Porto, Portugal.
- Pathology Laboratory, Institute of Molecular Pathology and Immunology of University of Porto (IPATIMUP), Rua Júlio Amaral de Carvalho 45, 4200-135, Porto, Portugal.
| | - João Vale
- Pathology Laboratory, Institute of Molecular Pathology and Immunology of University of Porto (IPATIMUP), Rua Júlio Amaral de Carvalho 45, 4200-135, Porto, Portugal
- Department of Pathological, Cytological and Thanatological Anatomy, School of Health of Polytechnic Institute of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Mariana Barros
- Pathology Laboratory, Institute of Molecular Pathology and Immunology of University of Porto (IPATIMUP), Rua Júlio Amaral de Carvalho 45, 4200-135, Porto, Portugal
| | - Diana Oliveira
- Pathology Laboratory, Institute of Molecular Pathology and Immunology of University of Porto (IPATIMUP), Rua Júlio Amaral de Carvalho 45, 4200-135, Porto, Portugal
| | - Morgana Mesquita
- Pathology Laboratory, Institute of Molecular Pathology and Immunology of University of Porto (IPATIMUP), Rua Júlio Amaral de Carvalho 45, 4200-135, Porto, Portugal
- Department of Pathological, Cytological and Thanatological Anatomy, School of Health of Polytechnic Institute of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Mónica Curado
- Pathology Laboratory, Institute of Molecular Pathology and Immunology of University of Porto (IPATIMUP), Rua Júlio Amaral de Carvalho 45, 4200-135, Porto, Portugal
- Department of Pathological, Cytological and Thanatological Anatomy, School of Health of Polytechnic Institute of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - João Pinto
- Pathology Laboratory, Institute of Molecular Pathology and Immunology of University of Porto (IPATIMUP), Rua Júlio Amaral de Carvalho 45, 4200-135, Porto, Portugal
| | - António Polónia
- Pathology Laboratory, Institute of Molecular Pathology and Immunology of University of Porto (IPATIMUP), Rua Júlio Amaral de Carvalho 45, 4200-135, Porto, Portugal
- i3S-Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Porto, Portugal
- Departamento de Sistemas Biofuncionais Do Corpo Humano da Escola de Medicina E Ciências Biomédicas, Inovação E Desenvolvimento, Instituto de Investigação, Fundação Fernando Pessoa (FP-I3ID), Porto, Portugal
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4
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Eloy C, Bychkov A, Fraggetta F, Temprana-Salvador J, Pantanowitz L, Vielh P. How many more slides to go until we fully adopt digital cytology? Cytopathology 2024; 35:442-443. [PMID: 38736173 DOI: 10.1111/cyt.13388] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2024] [Accepted: 04/27/2024] [Indexed: 05/14/2024]
Abstract
Two‐liner/synopsis: The digital cytology hub (DCH) has been established under the umbrella of the Cytopathology journal. DCH will help bring about the crucial changes needed to make digital cytology the way of practicing cytology in our laboratories.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catarina Eloy
- Pathology Department, Medical Faculty of University of Porto & Pathology Laboratory, Institute of Molecular Pathology and Immunology of University of Porto (IPATIMUP), Porto, Portugal
| | - Andrey Bychkov
- Department of Pathology, Kameda Medical Center, Chiba, Japan
| | | | | | - Liron Pantanowitz
- Department of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Philippe Vielh
- Department of Pathology, Medipath and American Hospital of Paris, Paris, France
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Tresserra F, Fabra G, Luque O, Castélla M, Gómez C, Fernández-Cid C, Rodríguez I. Validation of digital image slides for diagnosis in cervico-vaginal cytology. REVISTA ESPANOLA DE PATOLOGIA : PUBLICACION OFICIAL DE LA SOCIEDAD ESPANOLA DE ANATOMIA PATOLOGICA Y DE LA SOCIEDAD ESPANOLA DE CITOLOGIA 2024; 57:182-189. [PMID: 38971618 DOI: 10.1016/j.patol.2024.03.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2024] [Revised: 03/19/2024] [Accepted: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 07/08/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To test the diagnostic concordance between microscopic (MI) and digital (DG) observation of cervico-vaginal (CV) cytology in a validation study of the technique. METHODS Five cytotechnologists (CT) reviewed 888 routine CV cytology cases from the Cervical Pathology Unit of our center over a 2-week period of time. The cases were first observed by MI and at the end of the day the cases were observed by DG. STATISTICAL ANALYSIS USED Agreement calculated using the Kappa index. RESULTS Most of the diagnoses corresponded to benign (64%) or inflammatory conditions (14%) and 24% corresponded to the intraepithelial lesion or malignancy (ILM) category. The overall kappa coefficient of concordance was strong (0.87). Among the different CTs it was almost perfect in two, strong in two and moderate in one. In 18 cases (10%) there were discrepancies between techniques in the category of ILM. In 10 (56%) cases there was an overdiagnosis in DG and in 8 (44%) an overdiagnosis in MI. Only in two cases, the diagnostic discrepancy exceeded one degree of difference between lesions, and they were ASCUS or AGUS for DG and CIN 2 for MI. CONCLUSIONS In this validation test in which routine cases during a two-week period have been used, observing the cases with both techniques on the same day, we have obtained a strong degree of concordance. The discordances obtained have not been considered relevant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francisco Tresserra
- Cytology Laboratory, Gynecology Service, Dexeus Women's Health, Dexeus University Hospital, Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Gemma Fabra
- Cytology Laboratory, Gynecology Service, Dexeus Women's Health, Dexeus University Hospital, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Olga Luque
- Cytology Laboratory, Gynecology Service, Dexeus Women's Health, Dexeus University Hospital, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Miriam Castélla
- Cytology Laboratory, Gynecology Service, Dexeus Women's Health, Dexeus University Hospital, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Carla Gómez
- Cytology Laboratory, Gynecology Service, Dexeus Women's Health, Dexeus University Hospital, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Carmen Fernández-Cid
- Cytology Laboratory, Gynecology Service, Dexeus Women's Health, Dexeus University Hospital, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Ignacio Rodríguez
- Epidemiology Unit, Gynecology Service, Dexeus Women's Health, Dexeus University Hospital, Barcelona, Spain
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6
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Eccher A, Marletta S, Sbaraglia M, Guerriero A, Rossi M, Gambaro G, Scarpa A, Dei Tos AP. Digital pathology structure and deployment in Veneto: a proof-of-concept study. Virchows Arch 2024:10.1007/s00428-024-03823-7. [PMID: 38744690 DOI: 10.1007/s00428-024-03823-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2024] [Revised: 04/16/2024] [Accepted: 05/08/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Abstract
Nowadays pathology laboratories are worldwide facing a digital revolution, with an increasing number of institutions adopting digital pathology (DP) and whole slide imaging solutions. Despite indeed providing novel and helpful advantages, embracing a whole DP workflow is still challenging, especially for wide healthcare networks. The Azienda Zero of the Veneto Italian region has begun a process of a fully digital transformation of an integrated network of 12 hospitals producing nearly 3 million slides per year. In the present article, we describe the planning stages and the operative phases needed to support such a disruptive transition, along with the initial preliminary results emerging from the project. The ultimate goal of the DP program in the Veneto Italian region is to improve patients' clinical care through a safe and standardized process, encompassing a total digital management of pathology samples, easy file sharing with experienced colleagues, and automatic support by artificial intelligence tools.
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Affiliation(s)
- Albino Eccher
- Department of Medical and Sciences for Children and Adults, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, University Hospital of Modena, Modena, Italy
| | - Stefano Marletta
- Department of Diagnostic and Public Health, Section of Pathology, University of Verona, P.Leee L.A. Scuro N. 10, 37134, Verona, Italy.
- Division of Pathology, Humanitas Istituto Clinico Catanese, Catania, Italy.
| | - Marta Sbaraglia
- Surgical Pathology and Cytopathology Unit, Department of Medicine-DIMED, University of Padua School of Medicine, Padua, Italy
| | - Angela Guerriero
- Surgical Pathology and Cytopathology Unit, Department of Medicine-DIMED, University of Padua School of Medicine, Padua, Italy
| | - Mattia Rossi
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Giovanni Gambaro
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Aldo Scarpa
- Department of Diagnostic and Public Health, Section of Pathology, University of Verona, P.Leee L.A. Scuro N. 10, 37134, Verona, Italy
| | - Angelo Paolo Dei Tos
- Surgical Pathology and Cytopathology Unit, Department of Medicine-DIMED, University of Padua School of Medicine, Padua, Italy
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7
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Munari E, Scarpa A, Cima L, Pozzi M, Pagni F, Vasuri F, Marletta S, Dei Tos AP, Eccher A. Cutting-edge technology and automation in the pathology laboratory. Virchows Arch 2024; 484:555-566. [PMID: 37930477 PMCID: PMC11062949 DOI: 10.1007/s00428-023-03637-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2023] [Revised: 08/18/2023] [Accepted: 08/25/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023]
Abstract
One of the goals of pathology is to standardize laboratory practices to increase the precision and effectiveness of diagnostic testing, which will ultimately enhance patient care and results. Standardization is crucial in the domains of tissue processing, analysis, and reporting. To enhance diagnostic testing, innovative technologies are also being created and put into use. Furthermore, although problems like algorithm training and data privacy issues still need to be resolved, digital pathology and artificial intelligence are emerging in a structured manner. Overall, for the field of pathology to advance and for patient care to be improved, standard laboratory practices and innovative technologies must be adopted. In this paper, we describe the state-of-the-art of automation in pathology laboratories in order to lead technological progress and evolution. By anticipating laboratory needs and demands, the aim is to inspire innovation tools and processes as positively transformative support for operators, organizations, and patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enrico Munari
- Pathology Unit, Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Piazza Del Mercato, 15, 25121, Brescia, BS, Italy.
| | - Aldo Scarpa
- Pathology Unit, Department of Diagnostics and Public Health, University of Verona, Verona, Italy.
| | - Luca Cima
- Pathology Unit, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Santa Chiara Hospital, APSS, Trento, Italy
| | - Matteo Pozzi
- Bruno Kessler Foundation, Trento, Italy
- University of Trento, CIBIO Department, Trento, Italy
| | - Fabio Pagni
- Pathology Unit, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, IRCCS Fondazione San Gerardo Dei Tintori, Monza, Italy
| | - Francesco Vasuri
- Pathology Unit, IRCCS, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Stefano Marletta
- Pathology Unit, Department of Diagnostics and Public Health, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
- Department of Pathology, Pederzoli Hospital, Peschiera del Garda, Italy
| | - Angelo Paolo Dei Tos
- Surgical Pathology and Cytopathology Unit, Department of Medicine-DIMED, University of Padua School of Medicine, Padua, Italy
| | - Albino Eccher
- Section of Pathology, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children and Adults, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, University Hospital of Modena, Modena, Italy
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8
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Neto PC, Montezuma D, Oliveira SP, Oliveira D, Fraga J, Monteiro A, Monteiro J, Ribeiro L, Gonçalves S, Reinhard S, Zlobec I, Pinto IM, Cardoso JS. An interpretable machine learning system for colorectal cancer diagnosis from pathology slides. NPJ Precis Oncol 2024; 8:56. [PMID: 38443695 PMCID: PMC10914836 DOI: 10.1038/s41698-024-00539-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2023] [Accepted: 02/08/2024] [Indexed: 03/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Considering the profound transformation affecting pathology practice, we aimed to develop a scalable artificial intelligence (AI) system to diagnose colorectal cancer from whole-slide images (WSI). For this, we propose a deep learning (DL) system that learns from weak labels, a sampling strategy that reduces the number of training samples by a factor of six without compromising performance, an approach to leverage a small subset of fully annotated samples, and a prototype with explainable predictions, active learning features and parallelisation. Noting some problems in the literature, this study is conducted with one of the largest WSI colorectal samples dataset with approximately 10,500 WSIs. Of these samples, 900 are testing samples. Furthermore, the robustness of the proposed method is assessed with two additional external datasets (TCGA and PAIP) and a dataset of samples collected directly from the proposed prototype. Our proposed method predicts, for the patch-based tiles, a class based on the severity of the dysplasia and uses that information to classify the whole slide. It is trained with an interpretable mixed-supervision scheme to leverage the domain knowledge introduced by pathologists through spatial annotations. The mixed-supervision scheme allowed for an intelligent sampling strategy effectively evaluated in several different scenarios without compromising the performance. On the internal dataset, the method shows an accuracy of 93.44% and a sensitivity between positive (low-grade and high-grade dysplasia) and non-neoplastic samples of 0.996. On the external test samples varied with TCGA being the most challenging dataset with an overall accuracy of 84.91% and a sensitivity of 0.996.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pedro C Neto
- Institute for Systems and Computer Engineering, Technology and Science (INESC TEC), R. Dr. Roberto Frias, Porto, 4200-465, Porto, Portugal.
- Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto (FEUP), R. Dr. Roberto Frias, Porto, 4200-465, Porto, Portugal.
| | - Diana Montezuma
- IMP Diagnostics, Praça do Bom Sucesso, 61, sala 808, Porto, 4150-146, Porto, Portugal.
- Cancer Biology and Epigenetics Group, Research Center of IPO Porto (CI-IPOP) / RISE@CI-IPOP (Health Research Network), Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPO Porto) / Porto Comprehensive Cancer Center (Porto.CCC), R. Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida 865, Porto, 4200-072, Porto, Portugal.
- Doctoral Programme in Medical Sciences, School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences - University of Porto (ICBAS-UP), R. Jorge de Viterbo Ferreira 228, Porto, 4050-313, Porto, Portugal.
| | - Sara P Oliveira
- Institute for Systems and Computer Engineering, Technology and Science (INESC TEC), R. Dr. Roberto Frias, Porto, 4200-465, Porto, Portugal.
- Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto (FEUP), R. Dr. Roberto Frias, Porto, 4200-465, Porto, Portugal.
| | - Domingos Oliveira
- IMP Diagnostics, Praça do Bom Sucesso, 61, sala 808, Porto, 4150-146, Porto, Portugal
| | - João Fraga
- Department of Pathology, IPO-Porto, R. Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida 865, Porto, 4200-072, Porto, Portugal
| | - Ana Monteiro
- IMP Diagnostics, Praça do Bom Sucesso, 61, sala 808, Porto, 4150-146, Porto, Portugal
| | - João Monteiro
- IMP Diagnostics, Praça do Bom Sucesso, 61, sala 808, Porto, 4150-146, Porto, Portugal
| | - Liliana Ribeiro
- IMP Diagnostics, Praça do Bom Sucesso, 61, sala 808, Porto, 4150-146, Porto, Portugal
| | - Sofia Gonçalves
- IMP Diagnostics, Praça do Bom Sucesso, 61, sala 808, Porto, 4150-146, Porto, Portugal
| | - Stefan Reinhard
- Institute of Pathology, University of Bern, Uni Bern, Murtenstrasse 31, Bern, 3008, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Inti Zlobec
- Institute of Pathology, University of Bern, Uni Bern, Murtenstrasse 31, Bern, 3008, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Isabel M Pinto
- IMP Diagnostics, Praça do Bom Sucesso, 61, sala 808, Porto, 4150-146, Porto, Portugal
| | - Jaime S Cardoso
- Institute for Systems and Computer Engineering, Technology and Science (INESC TEC), R. Dr. Roberto Frias, Porto, 4200-465, Porto, Portugal
- Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto (FEUP), R. Dr. Roberto Frias, Porto, 4200-465, Porto, Portugal
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9
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Magalhães G, Calisto R, Freire C, Silva R, Montezuma D, Canberk S, Schmitt F. Invisible for a few but essential for many: the role of Histotechnologists in the establishment of digital pathology. J Histotechnol 2024; 47:39-52. [PMID: 37869882 DOI: 10.1080/01478885.2023.2268297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2023] [Accepted: 10/03/2023] [Indexed: 10/24/2023]
Abstract
Digital pathology (DP) is indisputably the future for histopathology laboratories. The process of digital implementation requires deep workflow reorganisation which involves an interdisciplinary team. This transformation may have the greatest impact on the Histotechnologist (HTL) profession. Our review of the literature has clearly revealed that the role of HTLs in the establishment of DP is being unnoticed and guidance is limited. This article aims to bring HTLs from behind-the-scenes into the spotlight. Our objective is to provide them guidance and practical recommendations to successfully contribute to the implementation of a new digital workflow. Furthermore, it also intends to contribute for improvement of study programs, ensuring the role of HTL in DP is addressed as part of graduate and post-graduate education. In our review, we report on the differences encountered between workflow schemes and the limitations observed in this process. The authors propose a digital workflow to achieve its limitless potential, focusing on the HTL's role. This article explores the novel responsibilities of HTLs during specimen gross dissection, embedding, microtomy, staining, digital scanning, and whole slide image quality control. Furthermore, we highlight the benefits and challenges that DP implementation might bring the HTLs career. HTLs have an important role in the digital workflow: the responsibility of achieving the perfect glass slide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gisela Magalhães
- Histopathology Department, Portsmouth Hospital University NHS Trust, Portsmouth, UK
- Department of Pathological Anatomy, School of Health Polytechnic of Porto (ESS|P.PORTO), Porto, Portugal
| | - Rita Calisto
- Department of Pathological Anatomy, School of Health Polytechnic of Porto (ESS|P.PORTO), Porto, Portugal
- Department of Pathological Anatomy, Hospital do Divino Espírito Santo, Ponta Delgada, Portugal
| | - Catarina Freire
- Department of Pathological Anatomy, School of Health Polytechnic of Porto (ESS|P.PORTO), Porto, Portugal
- Department of Pathological Anatomy, Hospital do Divino Espírito Santo, Ponta Delgada, Portugal
| | - Regina Silva
- Department of Pathological Anatomy, School of Health Polytechnic of Porto (ESS|P.PORTO), Porto, Portugal
- Centro de Investigação em Saúde e Ambiente, ESS,P.PORTO, Porto, Portugal
| | - Diana Montezuma
- Research & Development Unit, IMP Diagnostics, Porto, Portugal
- School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University of Porto (ICBAS-UP), Porto, Portugal
| | - Sule Canberk
- Institute for Research and Innovation in Health (i3S), University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
- Cancer Signalling & Metabolism, Institute of Molecular Pathology and Immunology of the University of Porto (Ipatimup), Porto, Portugal
- Faculty of Medicine of the University of Porto (FMUP), Porto, Portugal
| | - Fernando Schmitt
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine of University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
- CINTESIS@RISE, Health Research Network, Alameda Prof. Hernâni Monteiro, Portugal
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Iwuajoku V, Haas A, Ekici K, Khan MZ, Stögbauer F, Steiger K, Mogler C, Schüffler PJ. [Digital transformation of a routine histopathology lab : Dos and don'ts!]. PATHOLOGIE (HEIDELBERG, GERMANY) 2024; 45:98-105. [PMID: 38189845 PMCID: PMC10902067 DOI: 10.1007/s00292-023-01291-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/15/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2024]
Abstract
The implementation of digital histopathology in the laboratory marks a crucial milestone in the overall digital transformation of pathology. This shift offers a range of new possibilities, including access to extensive datasets for AI-assisted analyses, the flexibility of remote work and home office arrangements for specialists, and the expedited and simplified sharing of images and data for research, conferences, and tumor boards. However, the transition to a fully digital workflow involves significant technological and personnel-related efforts. It necessitates careful and adaptable change management to minimize disruptions, particularly in the personnel domain, and to prevent the loss of valuable potential from employees who may be resistant to change. This article consolidates our institute's experiences, highlighting technical and personnel-related challenges encountered during the transition to digital pathology. It also presents a comprehensive overview of potential difficulties at various interfaces when converting routine operations to a digital workflow.
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Affiliation(s)
- Viola Iwuajoku
- Institut für Pathologie, TUM School of Medicine and Health, Technische Universität München, Trogerstraße 18, 81675, München, Deutschland
| | - Anette Haas
- Institut für Pathologie, TUM School of Medicine and Health, Technische Universität München, Trogerstraße 18, 81675, München, Deutschland
| | - Kübra Ekici
- Institut für Pathologie, TUM School of Medicine and Health, Technische Universität München, Trogerstraße 18, 81675, München, Deutschland
| | - Mohammad Zaid Khan
- Institut für Pathologie, TUM School of Medicine and Health, Technische Universität München, Trogerstraße 18, 81675, München, Deutschland
| | - Fabian Stögbauer
- Institut für Pathologie, TUM School of Medicine and Health, Technische Universität München, Trogerstraße 18, 81675, München, Deutschland
| | - Katja Steiger
- Institut für Pathologie, TUM School of Medicine and Health, Technische Universität München, Trogerstraße 18, 81675, München, Deutschland
| | - Carolin Mogler
- Institut für Pathologie, TUM School of Medicine and Health, Technische Universität München, Trogerstraße 18, 81675, München, Deutschland
| | - Peter J Schüffler
- Institut für Pathologie, TUM School of Medicine and Health, Technische Universität München, Trogerstraße 18, 81675, München, Deutschland.
- TUM School of Computational Information and Technology, Technische Universität München, München, Deutschland.
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11
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Goel A, Kapatia G, Gupta S, Parwaiz A. Commentary on "Inking Cell Blocks Enhances Scanner Detection for Diagnosis in Pathology". Diagn Cytopathol 2024; 52:183-184. [PMID: 38229509 DOI: 10.1002/dc.25275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2023] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 01/18/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Archit Goel
- Department of Pathology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Bathinda, India
| | - Gargi Kapatia
- Department of Pathology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Bathinda, India
| | - Shruti Gupta
- Department of Pathology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Rae Bareli, India
| | - Amber Parwaiz
- Department of Pathology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Patna, India
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L'Imperio V, Casati G, Cazzaniga G, Tarabini A, Bolognesi MM, Gibilisco F, Fraggetta F, Pagni F. Improvements in digital pathology equipment for renal biopsies: updating the standard model. J Nephrol 2024; 37:221-229. [PMID: 36786977 DOI: 10.1007/s40620-023-01568-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2022] [Accepted: 01/01/2023] [Indexed: 02/15/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Digital pathology can improve the technical and interpretative workflows in nephropathology by creating hub-spoke networks and virtuous collaboration projects among centers in different geographical regions. New high-resolution fast-scanning instruments combined with currently existing equipment were tested in a nephropathology hub to evaluate possible upgrading in the routine processing phases. METHODS The scanning performance of two different instruments (Aperio vs hybrid MIDI II) was evaluated and a comparative quality control check was performed on obtained whole slide images. RESULTS Both with default and custom settings for light microscopy, MIDI II proved to be faster, with only slightly more time required to prepare the scan and larger final file size as compared to Aperio (p < 0.001). No differences were noted in the number of out-of-focus slides per case (p = 0.75). Regarding immunofluorescence, the new scanner required longer preparation time (p = 0.001) with comparable scanning times and final file size (p = 0.169 and p = 0.177, respectively). Quality control showed differences in 3 quality features related to white background and blurriness (p < 0.001). No major discordances in the final diagnosis were recorded after comparing the report obtained with slides scanned using the two instruments, with only one case (4%) showing minor disagreement. CONCLUSION The present report describes the experience of a hub nephropathology center adopting next generation digital pathology tools for the routine assessment of renal biopsies, highlighting the need for a complementary approach towards a philosophy of interoperability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vincenzo L'Imperio
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Pathology, University of Milano-Bicocca, IRCCS Fondazione San Gerardo dei Tintori, Monza, Italy
| | - Gabriele Casati
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Pathology, University of Milano-Bicocca, IRCCS Fondazione San Gerardo dei Tintori, Monza, Italy
| | - Giorgio Cazzaniga
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Pathology, University of Milano-Bicocca, IRCCS Fondazione San Gerardo dei Tintori, Monza, Italy
| | - Andrea Tarabini
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Pathology, University of Milano-Bicocca, IRCCS Fondazione San Gerardo dei Tintori, Monza, Italy
| | - Maddalena Maria Bolognesi
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Pathology, University of Milano-Bicocca, IRCCS Fondazione San Gerardo dei Tintori, Monza, Italy
| | - Fabio Gibilisco
- Pathology Unit, ASP Catania, "Gravina" Hospital, Caltagirone, Italy
| | | | - Fabio Pagni
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Pathology, University of Milano-Bicocca, IRCCS Fondazione San Gerardo dei Tintori, Monza, Italy.
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Eloy C. Postponing evolution: why are we choosing to ignore the need for a digital transformation in pathology? Virchows Arch 2023:10.1007/s00428-023-03714-3. [PMID: 38044343 DOI: 10.1007/s00428-023-03714-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2023] [Revised: 11/20/2023] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 12/05/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Catarina Eloy
- Pathology Laboratory, Institute of Molecular Pathology and Immunology of University of Porto (IPATIMUP), Rua Júlio Amaral de Carvalho 45, 4200-135, Porto, Portugal.
- Pathology Department, Medical Faculty of University of Porto, Porto, Portugal.
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14
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Pinto DG, Bychkov A, Tsuyama N, Fukuoka J, Eloy C. Real-World Implementation of Digital Pathology: Results From an Intercontinental Survey. J Transl Med 2023; 103:100261. [PMID: 37839634 DOI: 10.1016/j.labinv.2023.100261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2022] [Revised: 09/29/2023] [Accepted: 10/07/2023] [Indexed: 10/17/2023] Open
Abstract
The past 70 years have been characterized by rapid advancements in computer technology, and the health care system has not been immune to this trend. However, anatomical pathology has remained largely an analog discipline. In recent years, this has been changing with the growing adoption of digital pathology, partly driven by the potential of computer-aided diagnosis. As part of an international collaboration, we conducted a comprehensive survey to gain a deeper understanding of the status of digital pathology implementation in Europe and Asia. A total of 127 anatomical pathology laboratories participated in the survey, including 75 from Europe and 52 from Asia, with 72 laboratories having established digital pathology workflow and 55 without digital pathology. Laboratories using digital pathology for diagnostic (n = 29) and nondiagnostic (n = 43) purposes were thoroughly questioned about their implementation strategies and institutional experiences, including details on equipment, storage, integration with laboratory information system, computer-aided diagnosis, and the costs of going digital. The impact of the digital pathology workflow was also evaluated, focusing on turnaround time, specimen traceability, quality control, and overall satisfaction. Laboratories without access to digital pathology were asked to provide insights into their perceptions of the technology, expectations, barriers to adoption, and potential facilitators. Our findings indicate that although digital pathology is still the future for many, it is already the present for some. This decade may be a time when anatomical pathology finally embraces digital revolution on a larger scale.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Gomes Pinto
- Serviço de Anatomia Patológica, Hospital Garcia de Orta, EPE, Almada, Portugal; NOVA Medical School, Lisboa, Portugal; IPATIMUP - Instituto de Patologia e Imunologia Molecular da Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Andrey Bychkov
- Department of Pathology, Kameda Medical Center, Kamogawa, Chiba, Japan
| | - Naoko Tsuyama
- Division of Pathology, Cancer Institute Hospital, Japanese Foundation for Cancer Research, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Junya Fukuoka
- Department of Pathology, Kameda Medical Center, Kamogawa, Chiba, Japan; Department of Pathology Informatics, Nagasaki University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Nagasaki, Japan
| | - Catarina Eloy
- IPATIMUP - Instituto de Patologia e Imunologia Molecular da Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal; Instituto de Investigação e Inovação Em Saúde (i3S) and Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto (FMUP), Porto, Portugal.
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Eloy C, Neves B, Vale J, Campelos S, Curado M, Polónia A. Inking cell blocks improves scanner detection for diagnosis in pathology. Diagn Cytopathol 2023; 51:779-785. [PMID: 37724610 DOI: 10.1002/dc.25224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2023] [Revised: 09/06/2023] [Accepted: 09/07/2023] [Indexed: 09/21/2023]
Abstract
Cell blocks may be hard to be totally automatically detected by the scanner (ADS), generating incomplete whole slide images (WSIs), with areas that are not scanned, leading to possible false negative diagnosis. The aim of this study is to test if inking the cell blocks helps increasing ADS. Test 1: 15 cell blocks were sectioned, one half inked black (1HB) and the other inked green (1HG). Each of the halves was individually processed to generate a WSI stained by the H&E. 1HBs and 1HGs had similar scanning time (median 59 s vs. 65 s, p = .126) and file sizes (median 382 Mb vs. 381 Mb, p = .567). The black ink interfered less in the observation (2.2% vs. 44.4%; p < .001) than in the green one. Test 2: 15 cell blocks were sectioned, one half inked black (2HB) and the other left unstained/null (2HN). Each of the halves was individually processed to generate three WSIs-one HE, one periodic-acid Schiff (PAS), and one immunostained by cytokeratin AE1&AE3 (CKAE1AE3). HE and PAS WSIs from both 2HN and 2HB groups were all totally ADS and had similar scanning times and file sizes. Concerning immunostaining with CKAE1AE3: ADS (46.7% vs. 93.3%; p = .014), median time for scanning (57 s vs. 83 s; p < .001) and file size (178 Mb vs. 338 Mb; p < .001) were reduced significantly in the 2HN group in comparison with the 2HB. Although increasing scanning time and file size, inking the cell blocks helps increasing ADS after immunostaining, improving the safety and efficiency of the digital pathology workflow.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catarina Eloy
- Pathology Laboratory, Institute of Molecular Pathology and Immunology of University of Porto (Ipatimup), Porto, Portugal
- Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde (i3S), Porto, Portugal
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine of University of Porto (FMUP), Porto, Portugal
| | - Beatriz Neves
- Pathology Laboratory, Institute of Molecular Pathology and Immunology of University of Porto (Ipatimup), Porto, Portugal
| | - João Vale
- Pathology Laboratory, Institute of Molecular Pathology and Immunology of University of Porto (Ipatimup), Porto, Portugal
- Department of Pathological, Cytological and Thanatological Anatomy, School of Health (ESS), Polytechnic Institute of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Sofia Campelos
- Pathology Laboratory, Institute of Molecular Pathology and Immunology of University of Porto (Ipatimup), Porto, Portugal
| | - Mónica Curado
- Pathology Laboratory, Institute of Molecular Pathology and Immunology of University of Porto (Ipatimup), Porto, Portugal
- Department of Pathological, Cytological and Thanatological Anatomy, School of Health (ESS), Polytechnic Institute of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - António Polónia
- Pathology Laboratory, Institute of Molecular Pathology and Immunology of University of Porto (Ipatimup), Porto, Portugal
- Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde (i3S), Porto, Portugal
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Schwen LO, Kiehl TR, Carvalho R, Zerbe N, Homeyer A. Digitization of Pathology Labs: A Review of Lessons Learned. J Transl Med 2023; 103:100244. [PMID: 37657651 DOI: 10.1016/j.labinv.2023.100244] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2023] [Revised: 07/18/2023] [Accepted: 08/23/2023] [Indexed: 09/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Pathology laboratories are increasingly using digital workflows. This has the potential of increasing laboratory efficiency, but the digitization process also involves major challenges. Several reports have been published describing the individual experiences of specific laboratories with the digitization process. However, a comprehensive overview of the lessons learned is still lacking. We provide an overview of the lessons learned for different aspects of the digitization process, including digital case management, digital slide reading, and computer-aided slide reading. We also cover metrics used for monitoring performance and pitfalls and corresponding values observed in practice. The overview is intended to help pathologists, information technology decision makers, and administrators to benefit from the experiences of others and to implement the digitization process in an optimal way to make their own laboratory future-proof.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lars Ole Schwen
- Fraunhofer Institute for Digital Medicine MEVIS, Bremen, Germany.
| | - Tim-Rasmus Kiehl
- Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt Universität zu Berlin, Institute of Pathology, Berlin, Germany
| | - Rita Carvalho
- Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt Universität zu Berlin, Institute of Pathology, Berlin, Germany
| | - Norman Zerbe
- Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt Universität zu Berlin, Institute of Pathology, Berlin, Germany
| | - André Homeyer
- Fraunhofer Institute for Digital Medicine MEVIS, Bremen, Germany
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17
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Schüffler P, Steiger K, Weichert W. How to use AI in pathology. Genes Chromosomes Cancer 2023; 62:564-567. [PMID: 37254901 DOI: 10.1002/gcc.23178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2023] [Revised: 05/15/2023] [Accepted: 05/20/2023] [Indexed: 06/01/2023] Open
Abstract
AI plays an important role in pathology, both in clinical practice supporting pathologists in their daily work, and in research discovering novel biomarkers for improved patient care. Still, AI is in its starting phase, and many pathology labs still need to transition to a digital workflow to be able to enjoy the benefits of AI. In this perspective, we explain the major benefits of AI in pathology, highlight key requirements that need to be met and example how to use it in a typical workflow.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Schüffler
- Institute of Pathology, TUM School of Medicine and Health, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
- TUM School of Computing, Information and Technology, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
- Munich Data Science Institute, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Katja Steiger
- Institute of Pathology, TUM School of Medicine and Health, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Wilko Weichert
- Institute of Pathology, TUM School of Medicine and Health, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
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Caramelo A, Polónia A, Vale J, Curado M, Campelos S, Nascimento V, Barros M, Ferreira D, Pereira T, Neves B, Eloy C. Demonstrating the interference of tissue processing in the evaluation of tissue biomarkers: The case of PD-L1. Pathol Res Pract 2023; 248:154605. [PMID: 37320863 DOI: 10.1016/j.prp.2023.154605] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2023] [Revised: 06/04/2023] [Accepted: 06/06/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
The immunohistochemical (IHC) expression of PD-L1 in cancer models is used as a predictive biomarker of response to immunotherapy. We aimed to evaluate the impact of the usage of 3 different tissue processors in the IHC expression of PD-L1 antibody clones: 22C3 and SP142. Three different topographies of samples (n = 73) were selected at the macroscopy room: 39 uterine leiomyomas, 17 placentas and 17 palatine tonsils. Three fragments were collected from each sample and were inked with a specific color that represented their separate processing in a different tissue processor (A, B or C). During embedding, the 3 fragments with distinct processing were ensemble in the same cassette for sectioning of 3 slides/each: hematoxylin-eosin, 22C3 PDL1 IHC staining and SP142 PD-L1 IHC staining, that were blindly observed by 2 pathologists under digital environment. All but one set of 3 fragments were considered adequate for observation even in the presence of artifacts associated with processing issues that were recorded as high as 50.7 % for processor C. The occurrence of background non-specific staining and the presence of false positive results appear to be unrelated with the PD-L1 clone or the type of tissue processing. 22C3 PD-L1 was more frequently considered adequate for evaluation than SP142 PD-L1 that, in 29.2 % of WSIs (after tissue processor C) were considered not adequate for observation due to lack of the typical pattern of expression. Similarly, the intensity of PD-L1 staining was significantly decreased in fragments processed by C (both PD-L1 clones) in tonsil and placenta specimens, and by A (both clones) in comparison with those processed by B. This study demonstrates the need to standardize the tissue processing in pathology to cope with the growing needs of precision medicine quantifications and the production of high-quality material necessary for computational pathology usage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Caramelo
- Pathology Laboratory, Institute of Molecular Pathology and Immunology of University of Porto (Ipatimup), Porto, Portugal
| | - António Polónia
- Pathology Laboratory, Institute of Molecular Pathology and Immunology of University of Porto (Ipatimup), Porto, Portugal; Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde (i3S), Porto, Portugal
| | - João Vale
- Pathology Laboratory, Institute of Molecular Pathology and Immunology of University of Porto (Ipatimup), Porto, Portugal
| | - Mónica Curado
- Pathology Laboratory, Institute of Molecular Pathology and Immunology of University of Porto (Ipatimup), Porto, Portugal
| | - Sofia Campelos
- Pathology Laboratory, Institute of Molecular Pathology and Immunology of University of Porto (Ipatimup), Porto, Portugal
| | - Vanessa Nascimento
- Pathology Laboratory, Institute of Molecular Pathology and Immunology of University of Porto (Ipatimup), Porto, Portugal
| | - Mariana Barros
- Pathology Laboratory, Institute of Molecular Pathology and Immunology of University of Porto (Ipatimup), Porto, Portugal
| | - Diana Ferreira
- Pathology Laboratory, Institute of Molecular Pathology and Immunology of University of Porto (Ipatimup), Porto, Portugal
| | - Tânia Pereira
- Pathology Laboratory, Institute of Molecular Pathology and Immunology of University of Porto (Ipatimup), Porto, Portugal
| | - Beatriz Neves
- Pathology Laboratory, Institute of Molecular Pathology and Immunology of University of Porto (Ipatimup), Porto, Portugal
| | - Catarina Eloy
- Pathology Laboratory, Institute of Molecular Pathology and Immunology of University of Porto (Ipatimup), Porto, Portugal; Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde (i3S), Porto, Portugal; Faculty of Medicine of University of Porto (FMUP), Porto, Portugal.
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19
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Baumann M, Celis J, Ringborg U, Heitor M, Berns A, Albreht T, Arabadjiev J, Boutros M, Brandenburg M, Canhao H, Carneiro F, Chomienne C, De Lorenzo F, Eggermont AMM, Font A, Garralda E, Goulart M, Henrique R, Lawler M, Maier‐Hein L, Meunier F, Oberst S, Oliveira P, Papatriantafyllou M, Schüz J, Solary E, Valencia A, Vargas R, Weiderpass E, Wilking N. Engaging European society at the forefront of cancer research and care: How discussions at the 5 th Gago Conference on European Science policy led to the Heidelberg Manifesto. Mol Oncol 2023; 17:925-945. [PMID: 36938773 PMCID: PMC10257409 DOI: 10.1002/1878-0261.13423] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2023] [Revised: 03/26/2023] [Accepted: 03/17/2023] [Indexed: 03/21/2023] Open
Abstract
European cancer research stakeholders met in October 2022 in Heidelberg, Germany, at the 5th Gago conference on European Cancer Policy, to discuss the current cancer research and cancer care policy landscape in Europe. Meeting participants highlighted gaps in the existing European programmes focusing on cancer research, including Europe's Beating Cancer Plan (EBCP), the Mission on Cancer (MoC), Understanding Cancer (UNCAN.eu), and the joint action CRANE, and put forward the next priorities, in the form of the Heidelberg Manifesto for cancer research. This meeting report presents all discussions that shed light on how infrastructures can be effectively shaped for translational, prevention, clinical and outcomes cancer research, with a focus on implementation and sustainability and while engaging patients and the public. In addition, we summarize recommendations on how to introduce frameworks for the digitalization of European cancer research. Finally, we discuss what structures, commitment, and resources are needed to establish a collaborative cancer research environment in Europe to achieve the scale required for innovation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Baumann
- German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ)HeidelbergGermany
- European Academy of Cancer SciencesStockholmSweden
| | - Julio Celis
- European Academy of Cancer SciencesStockholmSweden
- Danish Cancer Society Research CenterCopenhagenDenmark
| | - Ulrik Ringborg
- European Academy of Cancer SciencesStockholmSweden
- Cancer Center KarolinskaKarolinska University HospitalStockholmSweden
| | - Manuel Heitor
- European Academy of Cancer SciencesStockholmSweden
- Center for Innovation, Technology and Policy Research, IN+ @ IS TécnicoUniversity of LisbonPortugal
| | - Anton Berns
- European Academy of Cancer SciencesStockholmSweden
- The Netherlands Cancer InstituteAmsterdamThe Netherlands
| | - Tit Albreht
- National Institute of Public Health of SloveniaLjubljanaSlovenia
- Faculty of MedicineUniversity of LjubljanaSlovenia
| | - Jeliazko Arabadjiev
- Clinic of Medical OncologyUniversity Hospital Acibadem City Clinic TokudaSofiaBulgaria
- Bulgarian Scientific Society of Immuno‐oncology, and MoC BoardSofiaBulgaria
| | - Michael Boutros
- European Academy of Cancer SciencesStockholmSweden
- Division Signaling and Functional GenomicsGerman Cancer Research Center (DKFZ) and Heidelberg UniversityGermany
- DKFZ‐Hector Cancer Institute at the University Medical Center MannheimGermany
| | | | - Helena Canhao
- Comprehensive Health Research Center (CHRC), NOVA Medical SchoolUniversidade Nova de LisboaPortugal
| | - Fatima Carneiro
- European Academy of Cancer SciencesStockholmSweden
- Instituto de Patologia e Imunologia Molecular da Universidade do Porto (Ipatimup)Portugal
- Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde (i3S), Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade do Porto (FMUP)Portugal
- Centro Hospitalar Universitário de São João (CHUSJ)PortoPortugal
| | | | - Francesco De Lorenzo
- European Academy of Cancer SciencesStockholmSweden
- European Cancer Patient CoalitionBrusselsBelgium
| | - Alexander M. M. Eggermont
- European Academy of Cancer SciencesStockholmSweden
- Department Cancer MedicineCSO Princess Máxima Centre Pediatric Oncology, University Medical Center UtrechtThe Netherlands
- Board of the Comprehensive Cancer Center MunichTechnical University MunichGermany
- Ludwig Maximiliaan UniversityMunichGermany
| | | | - Elena Garralda
- Vall d'Hebron University Hospital, Vall d'Hebron Institute of Oncology (VHIO)BarcelonaSpain
- Cancer Core EuropeAmsterdamThe Netherlands
| | | | - Rui Henrique
- Department of Pathology & Cancer Biology & Epigenetics Group – Research Center of IPO Porto (CI‐IPOP)/RISE@CI‐IPOP (Health Research Network)Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPO‐Porto)/Porto Comprehensive Cancer Centre Raquel Seruca (P.CCC Raquel Seruca)Portugal
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Immunology, School of Medicine & Biomedical SciencesUniversity of Porto (ICBAS‐UP)Portugal
| | - Mark Lawler
- European Academy of Cancer SciencesStockholmSweden
- FRCPath Patrick G Johnston Centre for Cancer Research, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Life SciencesQueen's University BelfastUK
| | - Lena Maier‐Hein
- Intelligent Medical Systems (IMSY)German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ)HeidelbergGermany
| | - Francoise Meunier
- European Academy of Cancer SciencesStockholmSweden
- Belgian Royal Academy of MedicineBrusselsBelgium
| | - Simon Oberst
- Quality and AccreditationOrganisation of European Cancer InstitutesBrusselsBelgium
| | - Pedro Oliveira
- Nova School of Business and EconomicsCopenhagen Business School & Patient InnovationFrederiksbergDenmark
| | | | - Joachim Schüz
- European Academy of Cancer SciencesStockholmSweden
- International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC/WHO)LyonFrance
| | - Eric Solary
- European Academy of Cancer SciencesStockholmSweden
- INSERM, U1287 and Department of HematologyGustave Roussy Cancer CenterVillejuifFrance
- Faculté de MédecineUniversité Paris‐SaclayLe Kremlin‐BicêtreFrance
| | - Alfonso Valencia
- Barcelona Supercomputing Center (BSC)BarcelonaSpain
- ICREABarcelonaSpain
| | | | - Elisabete Weiderpass
- European Academy of Cancer SciencesStockholmSweden
- International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC/WHO)LyonFrance
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Caputo A, L’Imperio V, Merolla F, Girolami I, Leoni E, Mea VD, Pagni F, Fraggetta F. The slow-paced digital evolution of pathology: lights and shadows from a multifaceted board. Pathologica 2023; 115:127-136. [PMID: 37387439 PMCID: PMC10462988 DOI: 10.32074/1591-951x-868] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2023] [Accepted: 04/04/2023] [Indexed: 07/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective The digital revolution in pathology represents an invaluable resource fto optimise costs, reduce the risk of error and improve patient care, even though it is still adopted in a minority of laboratories. Barriers include concerns about initial costs, lack of confidence in using whole slide images for primary diagnosis, and lack of guidance on transition. To address these challenges and develop a programme to facilitate the introduction of digital pathology (DP) in Italian pathology departments, a panel discussion was set up to identify the key points to be considered. Methods On 21 July 2022, an initial conference call was held on Zoom to identify the main issues to be discussed during the face-to-face meeting. The final summit was divided into four different sessions: (I) the definition of DP, (II) practical applications of DP, (III) the use of AI in DP, (IV) DP and education. Results Essential requirements for the implementation of DP are a fully tracked and automated workflow, selection of the appropriate scanner based on the specific needs of each department, and a strong commitment combined with coordinated teamwork (pathologists, technicians, biologists, IT service and industries). This could reduce human error, leading to the application of AI tools for diagnosis, prognosis and prediction. Open challenges are the lack of specific regulations for virtual slide storage and the optimal storage solution for large volumes of slides. Conclusion Teamwork is key to DP transition, including close collaboration with industry. This will ease the transition and help bridge the gap that currently exists between many labs and full digitisation. The ultimate goal is to improve patient care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro Caputo
- Department of Pathology, Ruggi University Hospital, Salerno, Italy
- Pathology Unit, Gravina Hospital Caltagirone ASP, Catania, Italy
| | - Vincenzo L’Imperio
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Pathology, University of Milan-Bicocca, IRCCS Fondazione San Gerardo dei Tintori, Monza, Italy
| | - Francesco Merolla
- Department of Medicine and Health Sciences “V. Tiberio”, University of Molise, Campobasso, Italy
| | - Ilaria Girolami
- Department of Pathology, Provincial Hospital of Bolzano (SABES-ASDAA), Bolzano-Bozen, Italy; Lehrkrankenhaus der Paracelsus Medizinischen Privatuniversität
| | - Eleonora Leoni
- Pathology Unit, Busto Arsizio Hospital, Busto Arsizio, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Della Mea
- Department of Mathematics, Computer Science and Physics, University of Udine, Udine, Italy
| | - Fabio Pagni
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Pathology, University of Milan-Bicocca, IRCCS Fondazione San Gerardo dei Tintori, Monza, Italy
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21
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Ardon O, Klein E, Manzo A, Corsale L, England C, Mazzella A, Geneslaw L, Philip J, Ntiamoah P, Wright J, Sirintrapun SJ, Lin O, Elenitoba-Johnson K, Reuter VE, Hameed MR, Hanna MG. Digital pathology operations at a tertiary cancer center: Infrastructure requirements and operational cost. J Pathol Inform 2023; 14:100318. [PMID: 37811334 PMCID: PMC10550754 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpi.2023.100318] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2023] [Revised: 05/12/2023] [Accepted: 05/12/2023] [Indexed: 10/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Whole slide imaging is revolutionizing the field of pathology and is currently being used for clinical, educational, and research initiatives by an increasing number of institutions. Pathology departments have distinct needs for digital pathology systems, yet the cost of digital workflows is cited as a major barrier for widespread adoption by many organizations. Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (MSK) is an early adopter of whole slide imaging with incremental investments in resources that started more than 15 years ago. This experience and the large-scale scan operations led to the identification of required framework components of digital pathology operations. The cost of these components for the 2021 digital pathology operations at MSK were studied and calculated to enable an understanding of the operation and benchmark the accompanying costs. This paper describes the unique infrastructure cost and the costs associated with the digital pathology clinical operation use cases in a large, tertiary cancer center. These calculations can serve as a blueprint for other institutions to provide the necessary concepts and offer insights towards the financial requirements for digital pathology adoption by other institutions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Orly Ardon
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Eric Klein
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Allyne Manzo
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Lorraine Corsale
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Christine England
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Allix Mazzella
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Luke Geneslaw
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - John Philip
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Peter Ntiamoah
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Jeninne Wright
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | | | - Oscar Lin
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Kojo Elenitoba-Johnson
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Victor E. Reuter
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Meera R. Hameed
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Matthew G. Hanna
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
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22
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Eloy C, Marques A, Pinto J, Pinheiro J, Campelos S, Curado M, Vale J, Polónia A. Artificial intelligence-assisted cancer diagnosis improves the efficiency of pathologists in prostatic biopsies. Virchows Arch 2023; 482:595-604. [PMID: 36809483 PMCID: PMC10033575 DOI: 10.1007/s00428-023-03518-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2023] [Revised: 02/07/2023] [Accepted: 02/09/2023] [Indexed: 02/23/2023]
Abstract
Paige Prostate is a clinical-grade artificial intelligence tool designed to assist the pathologist in detecting, grading, and quantifying prostate cancer. In this work, a cohort of 105 prostate core needle biopsies (CNBs) was evaluated through digital pathology. Then, we compared the diagnostic performance of four pathologists diagnosing prostatic CNB unaided and, in a second phase, assisted by Paige Prostate. In phase 1, pathologists had a diagnostic accuracy for prostate cancer of 95.00%, maintaining their performance in phase 2 (93.81%), with an intraobserver concordance rate between phases of 98.81%. In phase 2, pathologists reported atypical small acinar proliferation (ASAP) less often (about 30% less). Additionally, they requested significantly fewer immunohistochemistry (IHC) studies (about 20% less) and second opinions (about 40% less). The median time required for reading and reporting each slide was about 20% lower in phase 2, in both negative and cancer cases. Lastly, the average total agreement with the software performance was observed in about 70% of the cases, being significantly higher in negative cases (about 90%) than in cancer cases (about 30%). Most of the diagnostic discordances occurred in distinguishing negative cases with ASAP from small foci of well-differentiated (less than 1.5 mm) acinar adenocarcinoma. In conclusion, the synergic usage of Paige Prostate contributes to a significant decrease in IHC studies, second opinion requests, and time for reporting while maintaining highly accurate diagnostic standards.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catarina Eloy
- Pathology Laboratory, Institute of Molecular Pathology and Immunology of the University of Porto (Ipatimup), Porto, Portugal
- i3S - Instituto de Investigação E Inovação Em Saúde, Porto, Portugal
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Ana Marques
- Pathology Laboratory, Institute of Molecular Pathology and Immunology of the University of Porto (Ipatimup), Porto, Portugal
- Serviço de Anatomia Patológica, Centro Hospitalar Universitário de São João, Porto, Portugal
| | - João Pinto
- Pathology Laboratory, Institute of Molecular Pathology and Immunology of the University of Porto (Ipatimup), Porto, Portugal
- Serviço de Anatomia Patológica, Hospital Pedro Hispano - Unidade Local de Saúde de Matosinhos, Matosinhos, Portugal
| | - Jorge Pinheiro
- Pathology Laboratory, Institute of Molecular Pathology and Immunology of the University of Porto (Ipatimup), Porto, Portugal
- Serviço de Anatomia Patológica, Centro Hospitalar Universitário de São João, Porto, Portugal
| | - Sofia Campelos
- Pathology Laboratory, Institute of Molecular Pathology and Immunology of the University of Porto (Ipatimup), Porto, Portugal
| | - Mónica Curado
- Pathology Laboratory, Institute of Molecular Pathology and Immunology of the University of Porto (Ipatimup), Porto, Portugal
| | - João Vale
- Pathology Laboratory, Institute of Molecular Pathology and Immunology of the University of Porto (Ipatimup), Porto, Portugal
| | - António Polónia
- Pathology Laboratory, Institute of Molecular Pathology and Immunology of the University of Porto (Ipatimup), Porto, Portugal.
- i3S - Instituto de Investigação E Inovação Em Saúde, Porto, Portugal.
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23
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Rizzo PC, Caputo A, Maddalena E, Caldonazzi N, Girolami I, Dei Tos AP, Scarpa A, Sbaraglia M, Brunelli M, Gobbo S, Marletta S, Pantanowitz L, Della Mea V, Eccher A. Digital pathology world tour. Digit Health 2023; 9:20552076231194551. [PMID: 37654717 PMCID: PMC10467307 DOI: 10.1177/20552076231194551] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2023] [Accepted: 07/27/2023] [Indexed: 09/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective Digital pathology (DP) is currently in the spotlight and is rapidly gaining ground, even though the history of this field spans decades. Despite great technological progress, the adoption of DP for routine clinical diagnostic use remains limited. Methods A systematic search was conducted in the electronic databases Pubmed-MEDLINE and Embase. Inclusion criteria were all published studies that encompassed any application of DP. Results Of 4888 articles retrieved, 4041 were included. Relevant articles were categorized as "diagnostic" (147/4041, 4%) where DP was utilized for routine diagnostic workflow and "non-diagnostic" (3894/4041, 96%) for all other applications. The "non-diagnostic" articles were further categorized according to DP application including "artificial intelligence" (33%), "education" (5%), "narrative" (17%) for reviews and editorials, and "technical" (45%) for pure research publications. Conclusion This manuscript provided temporal and geographical insight into the global adoption of DP by analyzing the published scientific literature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paola Chiara Rizzo
- Department of Pathology and Diagnostics and Public Health, Section of Pathology, University Hospital of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Alessandro Caputo
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Salerno, Fisciano, Italy
| | - Eddy Maddalena
- Department of Mathematics, Computer Science and Physics, University of Udine, Udine, Italy
| | - Nicolò Caldonazzi
- Department of Pathology and Diagnostics and Public Health, Section of Pathology, University Hospital of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Ilaria Girolami
- Department of Pathology, Provincial Hospital of Bolzano (SABES-ASDAA), Bolzano-Bozen, Italy
- Lehrkrankenhaus der Paracelsus Medizinischen Privatuniversität, Bolzano, Italy
| | - Angelo Paolo Dei Tos
- Surgical Pathology and Cytopathology Unit, Department of Medicine-DIMED, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Aldo Scarpa
- Department of Pathology and Diagnostics and Public Health, Section of Pathology, University Hospital of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Marta Sbaraglia
- Surgical Pathology and Cytopathology Unit, Department of Medicine-DIMED, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Matteo Brunelli
- Department of Pathology and Diagnostics and Public Health, Section of Pathology, University Hospital of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Stefano Gobbo
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Stefano Marletta
- Department of Pathology, Pederzoli Hospital, Peschiera del Garda, Verona, Italy
- Department of Diagnostics and Public Health, Section of Pathology, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | | | - Vincenzo Della Mea
- Department of Mathematics, Computer Science and Physics, University of Udine, Udine, Italy
| | - Albino Eccher
- Department of Pathology and Diagnostics, University and Hospital Trust of Verona, Verona, Italy
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24
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Caputo A, Gibilisco F, Belmonte B, Mondello A, L'Imperio V, Fraggetta F. Real-world digital pathology: considerations and ruminations of four young pathologists. J Clin Pathol 2023; 76:68-70. [PMID: 35470253 DOI: 10.1136/jclinpath-2022-208218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2022] [Accepted: 04/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro Caputo
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Salerno, Salerno, Italy
| | - Fabio Gibilisco
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences and Advanced Technologies "G. F. Ingrassia", University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Beatrice Belmonte
- Department of Pathology, Gravina Hospital, Caltagirone, Italy.,Tumor Immunology Unit, Department of Science and Promotion of Health and Maternal Infancy "G. D'Alessandro", University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Andrea Mondello
- Department of Pathology, Gravina Hospital, Caltagirone, Italy
| | - Vincenzo L'Imperio
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Monza, Lombardia, Italy.,Department of Pathology, ASST Monza, Monza, Lombardia, Italy
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25
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Yavuz A, Alpsoy A, Gedik EO, Celik MY, Bassorgun CI, Unal B, Elpek GO. Artificial intelligence applications in predicting the behavior of gastrointestinal cancers in pathology. Artif Intell Gastroenterol 2022; 3:142-162. [DOI: 10.35712/aig.v3.i5.142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2022] [Revised: 11/25/2022] [Accepted: 12/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent research has provided a wealth of data supporting the application of artificial intelligence (AI)-based applications in routine pathology practice. Indeed, it is clear that these methods can significantly support an accurate and rapid diagnosis by eliminating errors, increasing reliability, and improving workflow. In addition, the effectiveness of AI in the pathological evaluation of prognostic parameters associated with behavior, course, and treatment in many types of tumors has also been noted. Regarding gastrointestinal system (GIS) cancers, the contribution of AI methods to pathological diagnosis has been investigated in many studies. On the other hand, studies focusing on AI applications in evaluating parameters to determine tumor behavior are relatively few. For this purpose, the potential of AI models has been studied over a broad spectrum, from tumor subtyping to the identification of new digital biomarkers. The capacity of AI to infer genetic alterations of cancer tissues from digital slides has been demonstrated. Although current data suggest the merit of AI-based approaches in assessing tumor behavior in GIS cancers, a wide range of challenges still need to be solved, from laboratory infrastructure to improving the robustness of algorithms, before incorporating AI applications into real-life GIS pathology practice. This review aims to present data from AI applications in evaluating pathological parameters related to the behavior of GIS cancer with an overview of the opportunities and challenges encountered in implementing AI in pathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aysen Yavuz
- Department of Pathology, Akdeniz University Medical School, Antalya 07070, Turkey
| | - Anil Alpsoy
- Department of Pathology, Akdeniz University Medical School, Antalya 07070, Turkey
| | - Elif Ocak Gedik
- Department of Pathology, Akdeniz University Medical School, Antalya 07070, Turkey
| | | | | | - Betul Unal
- Department of Pathology, Akdeniz University Medical School, Antalya 07070, Turkey
| | - Gulsum Ozlem Elpek
- Department of Pathology, Akdeniz University Medical School, Antalya 07070, Turkey
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26
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Ali M, Evans H, Whitney P, Minhas F, Snead DRJ. Using Systemised Nomenclature of Medicine (SNOMED) codes to select digital pathology whole slide images for long-term archiving. J Clin Pathol 2022; 76:349-352. [PMID: 36109157 PMCID: PMC10176345 DOI: 10.1136/jcp-2022-208483] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2022] [Accepted: 08/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
The archiving of whole slide images represents a hurdle to digital pathology implementation largely because of the amount of data generated. The retention of glass slides is currently recommended for a minimum of 10 years, but it is for individual departments to determine how digital images are archived and for how long. In a retrospective study, we examined the combination of Systemised Nomenclature of Medicine (SNOMED) codes allocated to cases reported between July 2011 and December 2015 and recalled more than 12 months after diagnosis in comparison to non-recalled cases.Our results show that 0.2% of cases are recalled after 12 months, and SNOMED code combinations can be used to identify which cases are likely to be recalled and which are not. This approach could reduce the number of cases archived by 62% and still ensure all cases likely to be recalled remain in the archive.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahmoud Ali
- Histopathology Department, University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire NHS Trust, Coventry, UK
- Histopathology Department, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, UK
| | - Harriet Evans
- Histopathology Department, University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire NHS Trust, Coventry, UK
| | - Peter Whitney
- Histopathology Department, University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire NHS Trust, Coventry, UK
| | - Fayyaz Minhas
- Department of Computer Science, University of Warwick, Coventry, West Midlands, UK
| | - David R J Snead
- Histopathology Department, University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire NHS Trust, Coventry, UK
- Warick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
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27
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Ramos HE, Vale J, Lopes S, Marques A, Pinheiro J, de Lima Beltrão FE, Rodrigues G, Rende PRF, Hecht F, Eloy C. Nuclear score evaluation in follicular-patterned thyroid lesions using optical and digital environments. Endocrine 2022; 77:486-492. [PMID: 35678976 DOI: 10.1007/s12020-022-03104-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2022] [Accepted: 05/29/2022] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The subjective evaluation of nuclear features in follicular-patterned lesions of the thyroid is a reason for diagnosis discordance. The assessment of nuclear features also varies whether the observation is performed optically or digitally. Our objective was to study the concordance among pathologists regarding the nuclear score (NS) evaluation in a series of follicular-patterned lesions, using optical versus three digital scanning protocols. METHODS Three pathologists evaluated the NS in a 3mm2 area randomly selected from 20 hematoxylin-eosin slides representative of the respective 20 follicular-patterned thyroid lesions. The NS evaluation was performed using optical and three different scanning protocols in two scanners: P1000_20x, P1000_40x and DP200_20x. Kappa statistic (κ) and intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) were obtained for intra- and interpathologist concordance. RESULTS We recorded a good agreement among pathologists in the optical evaluation of the NS (ICC of 0.73). The concordance between optical versus digital observation had an almost perfect agreement for P1000_20x [κ = 0.85 (0.67-1.02); p < 0.0001] and a substantial agreement for both P1000_40x [κ = 0.69 (0.43-0.95) p = 0.002] and DP200_20x [κ = 0.77 (0.57-0.97); p = 0.001]. The P1000_20x protocol had the best intrapathologist concordance with the optical method, classified as almost perfect agreement for pathologists A (80%) and B (85%), and substantial agreement for pathologist C (70%). CONCLUSION Digital observation of the WSI is valid for the NS evaluation in follicular-patterned thyroid lesions, with good agreement among pathologists and between optical and scanning protocols. Performance studies and validation procedures cannot be avoided in this setting to prevent diagnostic discordance due to the scanning process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helton Estrela Ramos
- Bioregulation Department, Health and Science Institute, Federal University of Bahia, Salvador, Brazil.
- Postgraduate Program in Medicine and Health, Medical School of Medicine, Federal University of Bahia, Salvador, Brazil.
| | - João Vale
- Pathology Laboratory of the Institute of Molecular Pathology and Immunology of the University of Porto - IPATIMUP, Porto, Portugal
| | - Sara Lopes
- Department of Endocrinology, Hospital de Braga, Braga, Portugal
| | - Ana Marques
- Pathology Laboratory of the Institute of Molecular Pathology and Immunology of the University of Porto - IPATIMUP, Porto, Portugal
- Serviço de Anatomia Patológica, Centro Hospitalar Universitário de São João, Porto, Portugal
| | - Jorge Pinheiro
- Pathology Laboratory of the Institute of Molecular Pathology and Immunology of the University of Porto - IPATIMUP, Porto, Portugal
- Serviço de Anatomia Patológica, Centro Hospitalar Universitário de São João, Porto, Portugal
| | | | - Gabriel Rodrigues
- Bioregulation Department, Health and Science Institute, Federal University of Bahia, Salvador, Brazil
| | | | - Fabio Hecht
- The Institute of Biophysics Carlos Chagas Filho, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Catarina Eloy
- Pathology Laboratory of the Institute of Molecular Pathology and Immunology of the University of Porto - IPATIMUP, Porto, Portugal
- Faculty of Medicine of the University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
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28
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Wong ANN, He Z, Leung KL, To CCK, Wong CY, Wong SCC, Yoo JS, Chan CKR, Chan AZ, Lacambra MD, Yeung MHY. Current Developments of Artificial Intelligence in Digital Pathology and Its Future Clinical Applications in Gastrointestinal Cancers. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:3780. [PMID: 35954443 PMCID: PMC9367360 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14153780] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2022] [Revised: 07/27/2022] [Accepted: 08/01/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The implementation of DP will revolutionize current practice by providing pathologists with additional tools and algorithms to improve workflow. Furthermore, DP will open up opportunities for development of AI-based tools for more precise and reproducible diagnosis through computational pathology. One of the key features of AI is its capability to generate perceptions and recognize patterns beyond the human senses. Thus, the incorporation of AI into DP can reveal additional morphological features and information. At the current rate of AI development and adoption of DP, the interest in computational pathology is expected to rise in tandem. There have already been promising developments related to AI-based solutions in prostate cancer detection; however, in the GI tract, development of more sophisticated algorithms is required to facilitate histological assessment of GI specimens for early and accurate diagnosis. In this review, we aim to provide an overview of the current histological practices in AP laboratories with respect to challenges faced in image preprocessing, present the existing AI-based algorithms, discuss their limitations and present clinical insight with respect to the application of AI in early detection and diagnosis of GI cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alex Ngai Nick Wong
- Department of Health Technology and Informatics, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China; (A.N.N.W.); (Z.H.); (K.L.L.); (C.Y.W.); (S.C.C.W.); (J.S.Y.)
| | - Zebang He
- Department of Health Technology and Informatics, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China; (A.N.N.W.); (Z.H.); (K.L.L.); (C.Y.W.); (S.C.C.W.); (J.S.Y.)
| | - Ka Long Leung
- Department of Health Technology and Informatics, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China; (A.N.N.W.); (Z.H.); (K.L.L.); (C.Y.W.); (S.C.C.W.); (J.S.Y.)
| | - Curtis Chun Kit To
- Department of Anatomical and Cellular Pathology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Prince of Wales Hospital, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR, China; (C.C.K.T.); (C.K.R.C.); (M.D.L.)
| | - Chun Yin Wong
- Department of Health Technology and Informatics, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China; (A.N.N.W.); (Z.H.); (K.L.L.); (C.Y.W.); (S.C.C.W.); (J.S.Y.)
| | - Sze Chuen Cesar Wong
- Department of Health Technology and Informatics, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China; (A.N.N.W.); (Z.H.); (K.L.L.); (C.Y.W.); (S.C.C.W.); (J.S.Y.)
| | - Jung Sun Yoo
- Department of Health Technology and Informatics, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China; (A.N.N.W.); (Z.H.); (K.L.L.); (C.Y.W.); (S.C.C.W.); (J.S.Y.)
| | - Cheong Kin Ronald Chan
- Department of Anatomical and Cellular Pathology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Prince of Wales Hospital, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR, China; (C.C.K.T.); (C.K.R.C.); (M.D.L.)
| | - Angela Zaneta Chan
- Department of Anatomical and Cellular Pathology, Prince of Wales Hospital, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR, China;
| | - Maribel D. Lacambra
- Department of Anatomical and Cellular Pathology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Prince of Wales Hospital, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR, China; (C.C.K.T.); (C.K.R.C.); (M.D.L.)
| | - Martin Ho Yin Yeung
- Department of Health Technology and Informatics, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China; (A.N.N.W.); (Z.H.); (K.L.L.); (C.Y.W.); (S.C.C.W.); (J.S.Y.)
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Smith J, Johnsen S, Zeuthen MC, Thomsen LK, Marcussen N, Hansen S, Jensen CL. On the Road to Digital Pathology in Denmark-National Survey and Interviews. J Digit Imaging 2022; 35:1189-1206. [PMID: 35610395 PMCID: PMC9129899 DOI: 10.1007/s10278-022-00638-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2021] [Revised: 03/23/2022] [Accepted: 04/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Digital pathology (DP) is changing pathology departments dramatically worldwide, yet globally, few departments are presently digitalized for the full diagnostic workflow. Denmark is also on the road to full digitalization countrywide, and this study aim to cover experiences during the implementation process in a national context. Thus, quantitative questionnaires were distributed to all pathology departments in Denmark (n = 13) and distributed to all professions including medical clinical directors, medical doctors (MD) and biomedical laboratory scientists (BLS). For a qualitative perspective, we interviewed four employees representing four professions. Data were collected in 2019–2020. From the questionnaire and interviews, we found strategies differed at the Danish departments with regards to ambitions, technological equipment, workflows, and involvement of type of professions. DP education was requested by personnel. Informants were in general positive toward the digital future but mainly had concerns regarding the political pressure to integrate DP before technological advances are sufficient for maintaining rational budgets, workflows, and for sustaining diagnostic quality. This study is a glance on the Danish implementation process in its early stages from personnel’s point of view. It shows the complexity when large new workflow processes are to be implemented countrywide and with a large diversity of stakeholders like managers, MD, BLS, IT-professionals, and authorities. To ensure best technological and economical solutions and to maintain—or even optimize—diagnostic quality with DP and workflow alignment, we suggest superior inter- and intradepartmental communication. When implementing DP countrywide, a national working group is warranted with the variety of stakeholders represented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie Smith
- Department of Technology, Faculty of Health, University College Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | - Sys Johnsen
- Department of Technology, Faculty of Health, University College Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Mette Christa Zeuthen
- Department of Technology, Faculty of Health, University College Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Lisbeth Koch Thomsen
- Centre for Engineering and Science, University College Absalon, Næstved, Denmark
| | - Niels Marcussen
- Department of Clinical Pathology, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark.,Department of Pathology, Department of Regional Health Research, Hospital Sønderjylland, University of Southern Denmark, Aabenraa, Denmark
| | - Stig Hansen
- Department of Clinical Pathology, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark
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Neto PC, Oliveira SP, Montezuma D, Fraga J, Monteiro A, Ribeiro L, Gonçalves S, Pinto IM, Cardoso JS. iMIL4PATH: A Semi-Supervised Interpretable Approach for Colorectal Whole-Slide Images. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14102489. [PMID: 35626093 PMCID: PMC9139905 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14102489] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2022] [Revised: 05/13/2022] [Accepted: 05/17/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Nowadays, colorectal cancer is the third most incident cancer worldwide and, although it can be detected by imaging techniques, diagnosis is always based on biopsy samples. This assessment includes neoplasia grading, a subjective yet important task for pathologists. With the growing availability of digital slides, the development of robust and high-performance computer vision algorithms can help to tackle such a task. In this work, we propose an approach to automatically detect and grade lesions in colorectal biopsies with high sensitivity. The presented model attempts to support slide decision reasoning in terms of the spatial distribution of lesions, focusing the pathologist’s attention on key areas. Thus, it can be integrated into clinical practice as a second opinion or as a flag for details that may have been missed at first glance. Abstract Colorectal cancer (CRC) diagnosis is based on samples obtained from biopsies, assessed in pathology laboratories. Due to population growth and ageing, as well as better screening programs, the CRC incidence rate has been increasing, leading to a higher workload for pathologists. In this sense, the application of AI for automatic CRC diagnosis, particularly on whole-slide images (WSI), is of utmost relevance, in order to assist professionals in case triage and case review. In this work, we propose an interpretable semi-supervised approach to detect lesions in colorectal biopsies with high sensitivity, based on multiple-instance learning and feature aggregation methods. The model was developed on an extended version of the recent, publicly available CRC dataset (the CRC+ dataset with 4433 WSI), using 3424 slides for training and 1009 slides for evaluation. The proposed method attained 90.19% classification ACC, 98.8% sensitivity, 85.7% specificity, and a quadratic weighted kappa of 0.888 at slide-based evaluation. Its generalisation capabilities are also studied on two publicly available external datasets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pedro C. Neto
- Institute for Systems and Computer Engineering, Technology and Science (INESC TEC), 4200-465 Porto, Portugal; (S.P.O.); (J.S.C.)
- Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto (FEUP), 4200-465 Porto, Portugal
- Correspondence:
| | - Sara P. Oliveira
- Institute for Systems and Computer Engineering, Technology and Science (INESC TEC), 4200-465 Porto, Portugal; (S.P.O.); (J.S.C.)
- Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto (FEUP), 4200-465 Porto, Portugal
| | - Diana Montezuma
- IMP Diagnostics, 4150-146 Porto, Portugal; (D.M.); (A.M.); (L.R.); (S.G.); (I.M.P.)
- School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University of Porto (ICBAS), 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
- Cancer Biology and Epigenetics Group, IPO-Porto, 4200-072 Porto, Portugal
| | - João Fraga
- Department of Pathology, IPO-Porto, 4200-072 Porto, Portugal;
| | - Ana Monteiro
- IMP Diagnostics, 4150-146 Porto, Portugal; (D.M.); (A.M.); (L.R.); (S.G.); (I.M.P.)
| | - Liliana Ribeiro
- IMP Diagnostics, 4150-146 Porto, Portugal; (D.M.); (A.M.); (L.R.); (S.G.); (I.M.P.)
| | - Sofia Gonçalves
- IMP Diagnostics, 4150-146 Porto, Portugal; (D.M.); (A.M.); (L.R.); (S.G.); (I.M.P.)
| | - Isabel M. Pinto
- IMP Diagnostics, 4150-146 Porto, Portugal; (D.M.); (A.M.); (L.R.); (S.G.); (I.M.P.)
| | - Jaime S. Cardoso
- Institute for Systems and Computer Engineering, Technology and Science (INESC TEC), 4200-465 Porto, Portugal; (S.P.O.); (J.S.C.)
- Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto (FEUP), 4200-465 Porto, Portugal
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Ferreira D, Vale J, Curado M, Polónia A, Eloy C. The impact of different coverslipping methods in the quality of the whole slide images used for diagnosis in pathology. J Pathol Inform 2022; 13:100098. [PMID: 36268095 PMCID: PMC9576983 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpi.2022.100098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Digital pathology workflow aims to create whole slide images (WSIs) for diagnosis. The quality of the WSIs depends primarily on the quality of the glass slides produced by the pathology laboratory, where the coverslipping method plays an important role. In this study we compare the glass, the film, and the liquid coverslipping methods to evaluate which ones are suitable to create WSIs for diagnosis. The study included 18 formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tissue blocks. Of each block, 3 consecutive sections were covered using 1 of the 3 methods. The slides were scanned and evaluated for quality criteria by 2 pathologists experienced in digital pathology. The coverslipping method interferes with the quality of the WSIs, as well as with the scanning time and the file size of the WSIs. All coverslipping methods were found suitable for diagnosis. The glass and liquid methods were manual and had similar results concerning the presence of air bubbles/polymer accumulation, air drying artefacts, tissue exposed, and staining alterations. The glass method was the one with more air bubbles. The liquid method was associated with more alterations on the WSIs, but with the lowest file sizes. Automation of coverslipping and calibration of the scanner for the coverslipping method chosen by the pathology laboratory are relevant for the final quality of the WSIs.
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Temprana-Salvador J, López-García P, Castellví Vives J, de Haro L, Ballesta E, Rojas Abusleme M, Arrufat M, Marques F, Casas JR, Gallego C, Pons L, Mate JL, Fernández PL, López-Bonet E, Bosch R, Martínez S, Ramón y Cajal S, Matias-Guiu X. DigiPatICS: Digital Pathology Transformation of the Catalan Health Institute Network of 8 Hospitals—Planification, Implementation, and Preliminary Results. Diagnostics (Basel) 2022; 12:diagnostics12040852. [PMID: 35453900 PMCID: PMC9025604 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics12040852] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2022] [Revised: 03/17/2022] [Accepted: 03/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Complete digital pathology transformation for primary histopathological diagnosis is a challenging yet rewarding endeavor. Its advantages are clear with more efficient workflows, but there are many technical and functional difficulties to be faced. The Catalan Health Institute (ICS) has started its DigiPatICS project, aiming to deploy digital pathology in an integrative, holistic, and comprehensive way within a network of 8 hospitals, over 168 pathologists, and over 1 million slides each year. We describe the bidding process and the careful planning that was required, followed by swift implementation in stages. The purpose of the DigiPatICS project is to increase patient safety and quality of care, improving diagnosis and the efficiency of processes in the pathological anatomy departments of the ICS through process improvement, digital pathology, and artificial intelligence tools.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jordi Temprana-Salvador
- Department of Pathology, Vall d’Hebron University Hospital, CIBERONC, 08035 Barcelona, Spain; (J.C.V.); (S.R.y.C.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +34-93-274-68-09
| | - Pablo López-García
- Functional Competence Center, Information Systems, Catalan Health Institute (Institut Català de la Salut), 08006 Barcelona, Spain; (P.L.-G.); (L.d.H.); (E.B.)
| | - Josep Castellví Vives
- Department of Pathology, Vall d’Hebron University Hospital, CIBERONC, 08035 Barcelona, Spain; (J.C.V.); (S.R.y.C.)
| | - Lluís de Haro
- Functional Competence Center, Information Systems, Catalan Health Institute (Institut Català de la Salut), 08006 Barcelona, Spain; (P.L.-G.); (L.d.H.); (E.B.)
| | - Eudald Ballesta
- Functional Competence Center, Information Systems, Catalan Health Institute (Institut Català de la Salut), 08006 Barcelona, Spain; (P.L.-G.); (L.d.H.); (E.B.)
| | - Matias Rojas Abusleme
- Center for Telecommunications and Information Technology (Centre de Telecomunicacions i Tecnologies de la Informació, CTTI), Catalan Health Institute (Institut Català de la Salut), 08006 Barcelona, Spain;
| | - Miquel Arrufat
- Economic and Financial Management, Catalan Health Institute (Institut Català de la Salut), 08006 Barcelona, Spain;
| | - Ferran Marques
- Image Processing Group, Technical University of Catalonia (UPC), 08034 Barcelona, Spain; (F.M.); (J.R.C.)
| | - Josep R. Casas
- Image Processing Group, Technical University of Catalonia (UPC), 08034 Barcelona, Spain; (F.M.); (J.R.C.)
| | - Carlos Gallego
- Digital Medical Imaging System of Catalonia (SIMDCAT), TIC Salut, 08005 Barcelona, Spain;
| | - Laura Pons
- Department of Pathology, Germans Trias i Pujol University Hospital, 08916 Badalona, Spain; (L.P.); (J.L.M.); (P.L.F.)
| | - José Luis Mate
- Department of Pathology, Germans Trias i Pujol University Hospital, 08916 Badalona, Spain; (L.P.); (J.L.M.); (P.L.F.)
| | - Pedro Luis Fernández
- Department of Pathology, Germans Trias i Pujol University Hospital, 08916 Badalona, Spain; (L.P.); (J.L.M.); (P.L.F.)
| | - Eugeni López-Bonet
- Department of Pathology, Doctor Josep Trueta Hospital of Girona, 17007 Girona, Spain;
| | - Ramon Bosch
- Department of Pathology, Verge de la Cinta Hospital of Tortosa, 43500 Tarragona, Spain;
| | - Salomé Martínez
- Department of Pathology, Joan XXIII University Hospital of Tarragona, 43005 Tarragona, Spain;
| | - Santiago Ramón y Cajal
- Department of Pathology, Vall d’Hebron University Hospital, CIBERONC, 08035 Barcelona, Spain; (J.C.V.); (S.R.y.C.)
| | - Xavier Matias-Guiu
- Department of Pathology, Arnau de Vilanova University Hospital, 25198 Lleida, Spain;
- Department of Pathology, Bellvitge University Hospital, CIBERONC, 08907 Barcelona, Spain
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Digital Pathology Implementation in Private Practice: Specific Challenges and Opportunities. Diagnostics (Basel) 2022; 12:diagnostics12020529. [PMID: 35204617 PMCID: PMC8871027 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics12020529] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2022] [Revised: 02/15/2022] [Accepted: 02/16/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Digital pathology (DP) is being deployed in many pathology laboratories, but most reported experiences refer to public health facilities. In this paper, we report our experience in DP transition at a high-volume private laboratory, addressing the main challenges in DP implementation in a private practice setting and how to overcome these issues. We started our implementation in 2020 and we are currently scanning 100% of our histology cases. Pre-existing sample tracking infrastructure facilitated this process. We are currently using two high-capacity scanners (Aperio GT450DX) to digitize all histology slides at 40×. Aperio eSlide Manager WebViewer viewing software is bidirectionally linked with the laboratory information system. Scanning error rate, during the test phase, was 2.1% (errors detected by the scanners) and 3.5% (manual quality control). Pre-scanning phase optimizations and vendor feedback and collaboration were crucial to improve WSI quality and are ongoing processes. Regarding pathologists' validation, we followed the Royal College of Pathologists recommendations for DP implementation (adapted to our practice). Although private sector implementation of DP is not without its challenges, it will ultimately benefit from DP safety and quality-associated features. Furthermore, DP deployment lays the foundation for artificial intelligence tools integration, which will ultimately contribute to improving patient care.
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Fraggetta F, L’Imperio V, Ameisen D, Carvalho R, Leh S, Kiehl TR, Serbanescu M, Racoceanu D, Della Mea V, Polonia A, Zerbe N, Eloy C. Best Practice Recommendations for the Implementation of a Digital Pathology Workflow in the Anatomic Pathology Laboratory by the European Society of Digital and Integrative Pathology (ESDIP). Diagnostics (Basel) 2021; 11:2167. [PMID: 34829514 PMCID: PMC8623219 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics11112167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2021] [Revised: 11/15/2021] [Accepted: 11/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The interest in implementing digital pathology (DP) workflows to obtain whole slide image (WSI) files for diagnostic purposes has increased in the last few years. The increasing performance of technical components and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval of systems for primary diagnosis led to increased interest in applying DP workflows. However, despite this revolutionary transition, real world data suggest that a fully digital approach to the histological workflow has been implemented in only a minority of pathology laboratories. The objective of this study is to facilitate the implementation of DP workflows in pathology laboratories, helping those involved in this process of transformation to identify: (a) the scope and the boundaries of the DP transformation; (b) how to introduce automation to reduce errors; (c) how to introduce appropriate quality control to guarantee the safety of the process and (d) the hardware and software needed to implement DP systems inside the pathology laboratory. The European Society of Digital and Integrative Pathology (ESDIP) provided consensus-based recommendations developed through discussion among members of the Scientific Committee. The recommendations are thus based on the expertise of the panel members and on the agreement obtained after virtual meetings. Prior to publication, the recommendations were reviewed by members of the ESDIP Board. The recommendations comprehensively cover every step of the implementation of the digital workflow in the anatomic pathology department, emphasizing the importance of interoperability, automation and tracking of the entire process before the introduction of a scanning facility. Compared to the available national and international guidelines, the present document represents a practical, handy reference for the correct implementation of the digital workflow in Europe.
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Affiliation(s)
- Filippo Fraggetta
- European Society of Digital and Integrative Pathology (ESDIP), Rua da Constituição n°668, 1° Esq/Traseiras, 4200-194 Porto, Portugal; (F.F.); (V.L.); (D.A.); (R.C.); (S.L.); (T.-R.K.); (M.S.); (D.R.); (V.D.M.); (A.P.); (N.Z.)
- Pathology Unit, “Gravina” Hospital, Caltagirone, ASP Catania, Via Portosalvo 1, 95041 Caltagirone, Italy
| | - Vincenzo L’Imperio
- European Society of Digital and Integrative Pathology (ESDIP), Rua da Constituição n°668, 1° Esq/Traseiras, 4200-194 Porto, Portugal; (F.F.); (V.L.); (D.A.); (R.C.); (S.L.); (T.-R.K.); (M.S.); (D.R.); (V.D.M.); (A.P.); (N.Z.)
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Pathology, ASST Monza, San Gerardo Hospital, University of Milano-Bicocca, 20900 Monza, Italy
| | - David Ameisen
- European Society of Digital and Integrative Pathology (ESDIP), Rua da Constituição n°668, 1° Esq/Traseiras, 4200-194 Porto, Portugal; (F.F.); (V.L.); (D.A.); (R.C.); (S.L.); (T.-R.K.); (M.S.); (D.R.); (V.D.M.); (A.P.); (N.Z.)
- Imginit SAS, 152 Boulevard du Montparnasse, 75014 Paris, France
| | - Rita Carvalho
- European Society of Digital and Integrative Pathology (ESDIP), Rua da Constituição n°668, 1° Esq/Traseiras, 4200-194 Porto, Portugal; (F.F.); (V.L.); (D.A.); (R.C.); (S.L.); (T.-R.K.); (M.S.); (D.R.); (V.D.M.); (A.P.); (N.Z.)
- Charité–Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Institute of Pathology, Charitéplatz 1, 10117 Berlin, Germany
| | - Sabine Leh
- European Society of Digital and Integrative Pathology (ESDIP), Rua da Constituição n°668, 1° Esq/Traseiras, 4200-194 Porto, Portugal; (F.F.); (V.L.); (D.A.); (R.C.); (S.L.); (T.-R.K.); (M.S.); (D.R.); (V.D.M.); (A.P.); (N.Z.)
- Department of Pathology, Haukeland University Hospital, Jonas Lies Vei 65, 5021 Bergen, Norway
- Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Bergen, Jonas Lies Vei 87, 5021 Bergen, Norway
| | - Tim-Rasmus Kiehl
- European Society of Digital and Integrative Pathology (ESDIP), Rua da Constituição n°668, 1° Esq/Traseiras, 4200-194 Porto, Portugal; (F.F.); (V.L.); (D.A.); (R.C.); (S.L.); (T.-R.K.); (M.S.); (D.R.); (V.D.M.); (A.P.); (N.Z.)
- Charité–Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Institute of Pathology, Charitéplatz 1, 10117 Berlin, Germany
| | - Mircea Serbanescu
- European Society of Digital and Integrative Pathology (ESDIP), Rua da Constituição n°668, 1° Esq/Traseiras, 4200-194 Porto, Portugal; (F.F.); (V.L.); (D.A.); (R.C.); (S.L.); (T.-R.K.); (M.S.); (D.R.); (V.D.M.); (A.P.); (N.Z.)
- Department of Medical Informatics and Biostatistics, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, 200349 Craiova, Romania
| | - Daniel Racoceanu
- European Society of Digital and Integrative Pathology (ESDIP), Rua da Constituição n°668, 1° Esq/Traseiras, 4200-194 Porto, Portugal; (F.F.); (V.L.); (D.A.); (R.C.); (S.L.); (T.-R.K.); (M.S.); (D.R.); (V.D.M.); (A.P.); (N.Z.)
- Sorbonne Université, Institut du Cerveau—Paris Brain Institute—ICM, Inserm, CNRS, APHP, Inria Team “Aramis”, Hôpital de la Pitié Salpêtrière, 75013 Paris, France
| | - Vincenzo Della Mea
- European Society of Digital and Integrative Pathology (ESDIP), Rua da Constituição n°668, 1° Esq/Traseiras, 4200-194 Porto, Portugal; (F.F.); (V.L.); (D.A.); (R.C.); (S.L.); (T.-R.K.); (M.S.); (D.R.); (V.D.M.); (A.P.); (N.Z.)
- Department of Mathematics, Computer Science and Physics, University of Udine, 33100 Udine, Italy
| | - Antonio Polonia
- European Society of Digital and Integrative Pathology (ESDIP), Rua da Constituição n°668, 1° Esq/Traseiras, 4200-194 Porto, Portugal; (F.F.); (V.L.); (D.A.); (R.C.); (S.L.); (T.-R.K.); (M.S.); (D.R.); (V.D.M.); (A.P.); (N.Z.)
- Ipatimup Diagnostics, Institute of Molecular Pathology and Immunology of Porto University (Ipatimup), 4200-804 Porto, Portugal
- Medical Faculty, University of Porto, 4200-319 Porto, Portugal
| | - Norman Zerbe
- European Society of Digital and Integrative Pathology (ESDIP), Rua da Constituição n°668, 1° Esq/Traseiras, 4200-194 Porto, Portugal; (F.F.); (V.L.); (D.A.); (R.C.); (S.L.); (T.-R.K.); (M.S.); (D.R.); (V.D.M.); (A.P.); (N.Z.)
- Charité–Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Institute of Pathology, Charitéplatz 1, 10117 Berlin, Germany
| | - Catarina Eloy
- European Society of Digital and Integrative Pathology (ESDIP), Rua da Constituição n°668, 1° Esq/Traseiras, 4200-194 Porto, Portugal; (F.F.); (V.L.); (D.A.); (R.C.); (S.L.); (T.-R.K.); (M.S.); (D.R.); (V.D.M.); (A.P.); (N.Z.)
- Ipatimup Diagnostics, Institute of Molecular Pathology and Immunology of Porto University (Ipatimup), 4200-804 Porto, Portugal
- Medical Faculty, University of Porto, 4200-319 Porto, Portugal
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