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Coudry RA, Assis EA, Frassetto FP, Jansen AM, da Silva LM, Parra-Medina R, Saieg M. Crossing the Andes: Challenges and opportunities for digital pathology in Latin America. J Pathol Inform 2024; 15:100369. [PMID: 38638195 PMCID: PMC11025004 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpi.2024.100369] [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: 10/18/2023] [Revised: 02/05/2024] [Accepted: 02/17/2024] [Indexed: 04/20/2024] Open
Abstract
The most widely accepted and used type of digital pathology (DP) is whole-slide imaging (WSI). The USFDA granted two WSI system approvals for primary diagnosis, the first in 2017. In Latin America, DP has the potential to reshape healthcare by enhancing diagnostic capabilities through artificial intelligence (AI) and standardizing pathology reports. Yet, we must tackle regulatory hurdles, training, resource availability, and unique challenges to the region. Collectively addressing these hurdles can enable the region to harness DP's advantages-enhancing disease diagnosis, medical research, and healthcare accessibility for its population. Americas Health Foundation assembled a panel of Latin American pathologists who are experts in DP to assess the hurdles to implementing it into pathologists' workflows in the region and provide recommendations for overcoming them. Some key steps recommended include creating a Latin American Society of Digital Pathology to provide continuing education, developing AI models trained on the Latin American population, establishing national regulatory frameworks for protecting the data, and standardizing formats for DP images to ensure that pathologists can collaborate and validate specimens across the various DP platforms.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Rafael Parra-Medina
- National Cancer Institute (INC), Bogotá, Colombia
- Fundación Universitaria de Ciencias de la Salud (FUCS), Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Mauro Saieg
- Grupo Fleury, São Paulo, Brazil
- Santa Casa Medical School, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
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Browning L, Jesus C, Malacrino S, Guan Y, White K, Puddle A, Alham NK, Haghighat M, Colling R, Birks J, Rittscher J, Verrill C. Artificial Intelligence-Based Quality Assessment of Histopathology Whole-Slide Images within a Clinical Workflow: Assessment of 'PathProfiler' in a Diagnostic Pathology Setting. Diagnostics (Basel) 2024; 14:990. [PMID: 38786288 PMCID: PMC11120465 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics14100990] [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: 03/06/2024] [Revised: 04/17/2024] [Accepted: 04/28/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Digital pathology continues to gain momentum, with the promise of artificial intelligence to aid diagnosis and for assessment of features which may impact prognosis and clinical management. Successful adoption of these technologies depends upon the quality of digitised whole-slide images (WSI); however, current quality control largely depends upon manual assessment, which is inefficient and subjective. We previously developed PathProfiler, an automated image quality assessment tool, and in this feasibility study we investigate its potential for incorporation into a diagnostic clinical pathology setting in real-time. A total of 1254 genitourinary WSI were analysed by PathProfiler. PathProfiler was developed and trained on prostate tissue and, of the prostate biopsy WSI, representing 46% of the WSI analysed, 4.5% were flagged as potentially being of suboptimal quality for diagnosis. All had concordant subjective issues, mainly focus-related, 54% severe enough to warrant remedial action which resulted in improved image quality. PathProfiler was less reliable in assessment of non-prostate surgical resection-type cases, on which it had not been trained. PathProfiler shows potential for incorporation into a digitised clinical pathology workflow, with opportunity for image quality improvement. Whilst its reliability in the current form appears greatest for assessment of prostate specimens, other specimen types, particularly biopsies, also showed benefit.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa Browning
- Department of Cellular Pathology, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
| | - Christine Jesus
- Department of Cellular Pathology, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
| | - Stefano Malacrino
- Nuffield Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
| | - Yue Guan
- Department of Cellular Pathology, Royal Berkshire Hospital, Royal Berkshire NHS Foundation Trust, Reading RG1 5AN, UK
| | - Kieron White
- Department of Cellular Pathology, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
| | - Alison Puddle
- Department of Cellular Pathology, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
| | | | - Maryam Haghighat
- School of Electrical Engineering and Robotics, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD 4000, Australia
| | - Richard Colling
- Department of Cellular Pathology, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
- Nuffield Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
| | - Jacqueline Birks
- Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 7LD, UK
| | - Jens Rittscher
- Department of Engineering Science, University of Oxford, Oxford OX1 3PJ, UK
- NIHR Oxford Biomedical Research Centre, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
| | - Clare Verrill
- Department of Cellular Pathology, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
- Nuffield Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
- NIHR Oxford Biomedical Research Centre, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
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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: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 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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Browning L, Winter L, Cooper RA, Ghosh A, Dytor T, Colling R, Fryer E, Rittscher J, Verrill C. Impact of the transition to digital pathology in a clinical setting on histopathologists in training: experiences and perceived challenges within a UK training region. J Clin Pathol 2023; 76:712-718. [PMID: 35906044 PMCID: PMC10511979 DOI: 10.1136/jcp-2022-208416] [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: 05/24/2022] [Accepted: 07/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
AIMS With increasing utility of digital pathology (DP), it is important to consider the experiences of histopathologists in training, particularly in view of the varied access to DP across a training region and the consequent need to remain competent in reporting on glass slides (GS), which is also relevant for the Fellowship of the Royal College of Pathologists part 2 examination. Understanding the impact of DP on training is limited but could aid development of guidance to support the transition. We sought to investigate the perceptions of histopathologists in training around the introduction of DP for clinical diagnosis within a training region, and the potential training benefits and challenges. METHODS An anonymous online survey was circulated to 24 histopathologists in training within a UK training region, including a hospital which has been fully digitised since summer 2020. RESULTS 19 of 24 histopathologists in training responded (79%). The results indicate that DP offers many benefits to training, including ease of access to cases to enhance individual learning and teaching in general. Utilisation of DP for diagnosis appears variable; almost half of the (10 of 19) respondents with DP experience using it only for ancillary purposes such as measurements, reporting varying levels of confidence in using DP clinically. For those yet to undergo the transition, there was a perceived anxiety regarding digital reporting despite experience with DP in other contexts. CONCLUSIONS The survey evidences the need for provision of training and support for histopathologists in training during the transition to DP, and for consideration of their need to maintain competence and confidence with GS reporting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa Browning
- NIHR Oxford Biomedical Research Centre, Oxford, UK
- Cellular Pathology, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, UK
| | - Lucinda Winter
- Cellular Pathology, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, UK
| | | | - Abhisek Ghosh
- Cellular Pathology, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, UK
- Nuffield Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Thomas Dytor
- Cellular Pathology, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, UK
| | - Richard Colling
- Cellular Pathology, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, UK
- Nuffield Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Eve Fryer
- Cellular Pathology, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, UK
| | - Jens Rittscher
- NIHR Oxford Biomedical Research Centre, Oxford, UK
- Department of Engineering Science, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Big Data Institute, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Clare Verrill
- NIHR Oxford Biomedical Research Centre, Oxford, UK
- Cellular Pathology, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, UK
- Nuffield Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
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Kelleher M, Colling R, Browning L, Roskell D, Roberts-Gant S, Shah KA, Hemsworth H, White K, Rees G, Dolton M, Soares MF, Verrill C. Department Wide Validation in Digital Pathology-Experience from an Academic Teaching Hospital Using the UK Royal College of Pathologists' Guidance. Diagnostics (Basel) 2023; 13:2144. [PMID: 37443538 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics13132144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2023] [Revised: 06/08/2023] [Accepted: 06/14/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
AIM we describe our experience of validating departmental pathologists for digital pathology reporting, based on the UK Royal College of Pathologists (RCPath) "Best Practice Recommendations for Implementing Digital Pathology (DP)," at a large academic teaching hospital that scans 100% of its surgical workload. We focus on Stage 2 of validation (prospective experience) prior to full validation sign-off. METHODS AND RESULTS twenty histopathologists completed Stage 1 of the validation process and subsequently completed Stage 2 validation, prospectively reporting a total of 3777 cases covering eight specialities. All cases were initially viewed on digital whole slide images (WSI) with relevant parameters checked on glass slides, and discordances were reconciled before the case was signed out. Pathologists kept an electronic log of the cases, the preferred reporting modality used, and their experiences. At the end of each validation, a summary was compiled and reviewed with a mentor. This was submitted to the DP Steering Group who assessed the scope of cases and experience before sign-off for full validation. A total of 1.3% (49/3777) of the cases had a discordance between WSI and glass slides. A total of 61% (30/49) of the discordances were categorised as a minor error in a supplementary parameter without clinical impact. The most common reasons for diagnostic discordances across specialities included identification and grading of dysplasia, assessment of tumour invasion, identification of small prognostic or diagnostic objects, interpretation of immunohistochemistry/special stains, and mitotic count assessment. Pathologists showed similar mean diagnostic confidences (on Likert scale from 0 to 7) with a mean of 6.8 on digital and 6.9 on glass slide reporting. CONCLUSION we describe one of the first real-world experiences of a department-wide effort to implement, validate, and roll out digital pathology reporting by applying the RCPath Recommendations for Implementing DP. We have shown a very low rate of discordance between WSI and glass slides.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mai Kelleher
- Department of Cellular Pathology, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
| | - Richard Colling
- Department of Cellular Pathology, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
- Nuffield Department of Surgical Sciences, Oxford University, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
| | - Lisa Browning
- Department of Cellular Pathology, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
| | - Derek Roskell
- Department of Cellular Pathology, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
| | - Sharon Roberts-Gant
- Department of Cellular Pathology, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
| | - Ketan A Shah
- Department of Cellular Pathology, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
| | - Helen Hemsworth
- Department of Cellular Pathology, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
| | - Kieron White
- Department of Cellular Pathology, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
| | - Gabrielle Rees
- Department of Cellular Pathology, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
| | - Monica Dolton
- Nuffield Department of Surgical Sciences, Oxford University, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
| | - Maria Fernanda Soares
- Department of Cellular Pathology, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
| | - Clare Verrill
- Department of Cellular Pathology, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
- Nuffield Department of Surgical Sciences, Oxford University, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
- NIHR Oxford Biomedical Research Centre, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
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6
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Desai S. Digital pathology: an overview. CSI TRANSACTIONS ON ICT 2023. [PMCID: PMC10042104 DOI: 10.1007/s40012-023-00376-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/29/2023]
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Liscia DS, D’Andrea M, Biletta E, Bellis D, Demo K, Ferrero F, Petti A, Butinar R, D’Andrea E, Davini G. Use of digital pathology and artificial intelligence for the diagnosis of Helicobacter pylori in gastric biopsies. Pathologica 2022; 114:295-303. [DOI: 10.32074/1591-951x-751] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2022] [Accepted: 01/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
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Rizzo PC, Girolami I, Marletta S, Pantanowitz L, Antonini P, Brunelli M, Santonicco N, Vacca P, Tumino N, Moretta L, Parwani A, Satturwar S, Eccher A, Munari E. Technical and Diagnostic Issues in Whole Slide Imaging Published Validation Studies. Front Oncol 2022; 12:918580. [PMID: 35785212 PMCID: PMC9246412 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.918580] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2022] [Accepted: 05/24/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
ObjectiveDigital pathology with whole-slide imaging (WSI) has many potential clinical and non-clinical applications. In the past two decades, despite significant advances in WSI technology adoption remains slow for primary diagnosis. The aim of this study was to identify common pitfalls of WSI reported in validation studies and offer measures to overcome these challenges.MethodsA systematic search was conducted in the electronic databases Pubmed-MEDLINE and Embase. Inclusion criteria were all validation studies designed to evaluate the feasibility of WSI for diagnostic clinical use in pathology. Technical and diagnostic problems encountered with WSI in these studies were recorded.ResultsA total of 45 studies were identified in which technical issues were reported in 15 (33%), diagnostic issues in 8 (18%), and 22 (49%) reported both. Key technical problems encompassed slide scan failure, prolonged time for pathologists to review cases, and a need for higher image resolution. Diagnostic challenges encountered were concerned with grading dysplasia, reliable assessment of mitoses, identification of microorganisms, and clearly defining the invasive front of tumors.ConclusionDespite technical advances with WSI technology, some critical concerns remain that need to be addressed to ensure trustworthy clinical diagnostic use. More focus on the quality of the pre-scanning phase and training of pathologists could help reduce the negative impact of WSI technical difficulties. WSI also seems to exacerbate specific diagnostic tasks that are already challenging among pathologists even when examining glass slides with conventional light microscopy.
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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
| | | | - Stefano Marletta
- Department of Pathology and Diagnostics and Public Health, Section of Pathology, University Hospital of Verona, Verona, Italy
- Department of Pathology, Pederzoli Hospital, Peschiera del Garda, Italy
| | - Liron Pantanowitz
- Department of Pathology & Clinical Labs, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Pietro Antonini
- Department of Pathology and Diagnostics and Public Health, Section of Pathology, University Hospital of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Matteo Brunelli
- Department of Pathology and Diagnostics and Public Health, Section of Pathology, University Hospital of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Nicola Santonicco
- Department of Pathology and Diagnostics and Public Health, Section of Pathology, University Hospital of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Paola Vacca
- Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS), Rome, Italy
| | - Nicola Tumino
- Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS), Rome, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Moretta
- Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS), Rome, Italy
| | - Anil Parwani
- Department of Pathology, Ohio State University Medical Center, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Swati Satturwar
- Department of Pathology, Ohio State University Medical Center, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Albino Eccher
- Department of Pathology and Diagnostics, University and Hospital Trust of Verona, Verona, Italy
- *Correspondence: Albino Eccher,
| | - Enrico Munari
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
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Evans AJ, Brown RW, Bui MM, Chlipala EA, Lacchetti C, Milner DA, Pantanowitz L, Parwani AV, Reid K, Riben MW, Reuter VE, Stephens L, Stewart RL, Thomas NE. Validating Whole Slide Imaging Systems for Diagnostic Purposes in Pathology. Arch Pathol Lab Med 2022; 146:440-450. [PMID: 34003251 DOI: 10.5858/arpa.2020-0723-cp] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 32.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT.— The original guideline, "Validating Whole Slide Imaging for Diagnostic Purposes in Pathology," was published in 2013 and included 12 guideline statements. The College of American Pathologists convened an expert panel to update the guideline following standards established by the National Academies of Medicine for developing trustworthy clinical practice guidelines. OBJECTIVE.— To assess evidence published since the release of the original guideline and provide updated recommendations for validating whole slide imaging (WSI) systems used for diagnostic purposes. DESIGN.— An expert panel performed a systematic review of the literature. Frozen sections, anatomic pathology specimens (biopsies, curettings, and resections), and hematopathology cases were included. Cytology cases were excluded. Using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation approach, the panel reassessed and updated the original guideline recommendations. RESULTS.— Three strong recommendations and 9 good practice statements are offered to assist laboratories with validating WSI digital pathology systems. CONCLUSIONS.— Systematic review of literature following release of the 2013 guideline reaffirms the use of a validation set of at least 60 cases, establishing intraobserver diagnostic concordance between WSI and glass slides and the use of a 2-week washout period between modalities. Although all discordances between WSI and glass slide diagnoses discovered during validation need to be reconciled, laboratories should be particularly concerned if their overall WSI-glass slide concordance is less than 95%.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew J Evans
- From the Department of Pathology, Mackenzie Health, Richmond Hill, Ontario, Canada (Evans)
| | - Richard W Brown
- The Department of Pathology, Memorial Hermann Southwest Hospital, Houston, Texas (Brown)
| | - Marilyn M Bui
- The Department of Pathology, Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, Florida (Bui)
| | | | - Christina Lacchetti
- Policy and Advocacy, American Society of Clinical Oncology, Alexandria, Virginia (Lacchetti)
| | - Danny A Milner
- American Society for Clinical Pathology, Chicago, Illinois (Milner)
| | - Liron Pantanowitz
- The Department of Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor (Pantanowitz)
| | - Anil V Parwani
- The Department of Pathology, Ohio State University Medical Center, Columbus (Parwani)
| | | | - Michael W Riben
- The Department of Pathology, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston (Riben)
| | - Victor E Reuter
- The Department of Pathology, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York (Reuter)
| | - Lisa Stephens
- The Department of Anatomic Pathology, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio (Stephens)
| | - Rachel L Stewart
- Janssen Research & Development, Spring House, Pennsylvania (Stewart)
| | - Nicole E Thomas
- Surveys (Thomas), College of American Pathologists, Northfield, Illinois
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Mayall F, Smethurst HB, Semkin L, Mandalia T, Sohail M, Hadden R, Biddlestone L. A feasibility study of multisite networked digital pathology reporting in England. J Pathol Inform 2022; 13:4. [PMID: 35136671 PMCID: PMC8794026 DOI: 10.4103/jpi.jpi_61_21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2021] [Revised: 12/16/2021] [Accepted: 11/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Materials and Methods: Results: Conclusions:
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11
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Garberis I, Andre F, Lacroix-Triki M. L’intelligence artificielle pourrait-elle intervenir dans l’aide au diagnostic des cancers du sein ? – L’exemple de HER2. Bull Cancer 2022; 108:11S35-11S45. [PMID: 34969514 DOI: 10.1016/s0007-4551(21)00635-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
HER2 is an important prognostic and predictive biomarker in breast cancer. Its detection makes it possible to define which patients will benefit from a targeted treatment. While assessment of HER2 status by immunohistochemistry in positive vs negative categories is well implemented and reproducible, the introduction of a new "HER2-low" category could raise some concerns about its scoring and reproducibility. We herein described the current HER2 testing methods and the application of innovative machine learning techniques to improve these determinations, as well as the main challenges and opportunities related to the implementation of digital pathology in the up-and-coming AI era.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ingrid Garberis
- Inserm UMR 981, Gustave Roussy Cancer Campus, Villejuif, France; Université Paris-Saclay, 94270 Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, France.
| | - Fabrice Andre
- Inserm UMR 981, Gustave Roussy Cancer Campus, Villejuif, France; Université Paris-Saclay, 94270 Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, France; Département d'oncologie médicale, Gustave-Roussy, Villejuif, France
| | - Magali Lacroix-Triki
- Inserm UMR 981, Gustave Roussy Cancer Campus, Villejuif, France; Département d'anatomie et cytologie pathologiques, Gustave-Roussy, Villejuif, France
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Atallah NM, Toss MS, Verrill C, Salto-Tellez M, Snead D, Rakha EA. Potential quality pitfalls of digitalized whole slide image of breast pathology in routine practice. Mod Pathol 2022; 35:903-910. [PMID: 34961765 PMCID: PMC8711290 DOI: 10.1038/s41379-021-01000-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2021] [Revised: 12/11/2021] [Accepted: 12/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Using digitalized whole slide images (WSI) in routine histopathology practice is a revolutionary technology. This study aims to assess the clinical impacts of WSI quality and representation of the corresponding glass slides. 40,160 breast WSIs were examined and compared with their corresponding glass slides. The presence, frequency, location, tissue type, and the clinical impacts of missing tissue were assessed. Scanning time, type of the specimens, time to WSIs implementation, and quality control (QC) measures were also considered. The frequency of missing tissue ranged from 2% to 19%. The area size of the missed tissue ranged from 1-70%. In most cases (>75%), the missing tissue area size was <10% and peripherally located. In all cases the missed tissue was fat with or without small entrapped normal breast parenchyma. No missing tissue was identified in WSIs of the core biopsy specimens. QC measures improved images quality and reduced WSI failure rates by seven-fold. A negative linear correlation between the frequency of missing tissue and both the scanning time and the image file size was observed (p < 0.05). None of the WSI with missing tissues resulted in a change in the final diagnosis. Missing tissue on breast WSI is observed but with variable frequency and little diagnostic consequence. Balancing between WSI quality and scanning time/image file size should be considered and pathology laboratories should undertake their own assessments of risk and provide the relevant mitigations with the appropriate level of caution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nehal M. Atallah
- grid.4563.40000 0004 1936 8868Department of Histopathology, School of Medicine, the University of Nottingham and Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust, Nottingham, UK ,grid.411775.10000 0004 0621 4712Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Menoufia University, Shebin Elkom, Al-Menoufia, Egypt
| | - Michael S. Toss
- grid.4563.40000 0004 1936 8868Department of Histopathology, School of Medicine, the University of Nottingham and Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust, Nottingham, UK
| | - Clare Verrill
- grid.4991.50000 0004 1936 8948Nuffield Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK ,grid.4991.50000 0004 1936 8948NIHR Oxford Biomedical Research Centre, University of Oxford, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, UK
| | - Manuel Salto-Tellez
- grid.4777.30000 0004 0374 7521Precision Medicine Centre of Excellence, The Patrick G Johnston Centre for Cancer Research, Queen’s University, Belfast, UK
| | - David Snead
- grid.15628.380000 0004 0393 1193Cellular Pathology, University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire NHS Trust, Coventry, Coventry, UK
| | - Emad A. Rakha
- grid.4563.40000 0004 1936 8868Department of Histopathology, School of Medicine, the University of Nottingham and Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust, Nottingham, UK ,grid.411775.10000 0004 0621 4712Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Menoufia University, Shebin Elkom, Al-Menoufia, Egypt
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Cummins DM, Chaudhry IH, Harries M. Scarring Alopecias: Pathology and an Update on Digital Developments. Biomedicines 2021; 9:biomedicines9121755. [PMID: 34944572 PMCID: PMC8698437 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9121755] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2021] [Revised: 11/15/2021] [Accepted: 11/20/2021] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Primary cicatricial alopecias (PCA) represent a challenging group of disorders that result in irreversible hair loss from the destruction and fibrosis of hair follicles. Scalp skin biopsies are considered essential in investigating these conditions. Unfortunately, the recognised complexity of histopathologic interpretation is compounded by inadequate sampling and inappropriate laboratory processing. By sharing our successes in developing the communication pathway between the clinician, laboratory and histopathologist, we hope to mitigate some of the difficulties that can arise in managing these conditions. We provide insight from clinical and pathology practice into how diagnoses are derived and the key histological features observed across the most common PCAs seen in practice. Additionally, we highlight the opportunities that have emerged with advances in digital pathology and how these technologies may be used to develop clinicopathological relationships, improve working practices, enhance remote learning, reduce inefficiencies, optimise diagnostic yield, and harness the potential of artificial intelligence (AI).
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Affiliation(s)
- Donna M. Cummins
- The Dermatology Centre, Salford Royal Hospital, Northern Care Alliance NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester M6 8HD, UK;
| | - Iskander H. Chaudhry
- Department of Pathology, Royal Liverpool University Hospital, Liverpool L7 8XP, UK;
| | - Matthew Harries
- The Dermatology Centre, Salford Royal Hospital, Northern Care Alliance NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester M6 8HD, UK;
- Centre for Dermatology Research, University of Manchester, MAHSC and NIHR Manchester, Biomedical Research Centre, Manchester M13 9WU, UK
- Correspondence:
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14
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Brockmoeller S, Toh EW, Kouvidi K, Hepworth S, Morris E, Quirke P. Improving the management of early colorectal cancers (eCRC) by using quantitative markers to predict lymph node involvement and thus the need for major resection of pT1 cancers. J Clin Pathol 2021; 75:545-550. [PMID: 34645701 DOI: 10.1136/jclinpath-2021-207482] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2021] [Revised: 03/12/2021] [Accepted: 03/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Since implementing the NHS bowel cancer screening programme, the rate of early colorectal cancer (eCRC; pT1) has increased threefold to 17%, but how these lesions should be managed is currently unclear. AIM To improve risk stratification of eCRC by developing reproducible quantitative markers to build a multivariate model to predict lymph node metastasis (LNM). METHODS Our retrospective cohort of 207 symptomatic pT1 eCRC was assessed for quantitative markers. Associations between categorical data and LNM were performed using χ2 test and Fisher's exact test. Multivariable modelling was performed using logistic regression. Youden's rule gave the cut-point for LNM. RESULTS All significant parameters in the univariate analysis were included in a multivariate model; tumour stroma (95% CI 2.3 to 41.0; p=0.002), area of submucosal invasion (95% CI 2.1 to 284.6; p=0.011), poor tumour differentiation (95% CI 2.0 to 358.3; p=0.003) and lymphatic invasion (95% CI 1.3 to 192.6; p=0.028) were predictive of LNM. Youden's rule gave a cut-off of p>5%, capturing 18/19 LNM (94.7%) cases and leading to a resection recommendation for 34% of cases. The model that only included quantitative factors were also significant, capturing 17/19 LNM cases (90%) and leading to resection rate of 35% of cases (72/206). CONCLUSIONS In this study, we were able to reduce the potential resection rate of pT1 with the multivariate qualitative and/or quantitative model to 34% or 35% while detecting 95% or 90% of all LNM cases, respectively. While these findings need to be validated, this model could lead to a reduction of the major resection rate in eCRC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Scarlet Brockmoeller
- Pathology and Data Analytics, Leeds Institute of Medical Research at St. Jame's, School of Medicine, Leeds, UK
| | - Eu-Wing Toh
- Department of Histopathology, Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - Katerina Kouvidi
- Pathology and Data Analytics, Leeds Institute of Medical Research at St. Jame's, School of Medicine, Leeds, UK
| | | | - Eva Morris
- Nuffield Department of Popular Health, Big Data Institute, Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Philip Quirke
- Pathology and Data Analytics, Leeds Institute of Medical Research at St. Jame's, School of Medicine, Leeds, UK
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15
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Shi W, Georgiou P, Akram A, Proute MC, Serhiyenia T, Kerolos ME, Pradeep R, Kothur NR, Khan S. Diagnostic Pitfalls of Digital Microscopy Versus Light Microscopy in Gastrointestinal Pathology: A Systematic Review. Cureus 2021; 13:e17116. [PMID: 34548958 PMCID: PMC8437006 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.17116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2021] [Accepted: 08/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Digital microscopy (DM) is one of the cutting-edge advances in pathology, which entails improved efficiency, diagnostic advantages, and potential application in virtual diagnosis, particularly in the current era of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic. However, the diagnostic challenges are the remaining concerns for its wider adoption by pathologists, and these concerns should be addressed in a specific subspecialty. We aim to identify the common diagnostic pitfalls of whole slide imaging (WSI), one modality of DM, in gastrointestinal (GI) pathology. From validating studies of primary diagnosis performance, we included 16 records with features on GI cases involved, at least two weeks wash-out periods, and more than 60 case study designs. A tailored quality appraisal assessment was utilized to evaluate the risks of bias for these diagnostic accuracy studies. Furthermore, due to the highly heterogeneous studies and unstandardized definition of discordance, we extract the discordant cases in GI pathology and calculate the discrepant rate, resulting from 0.5% to 64.28%. Targeting discrepancy cases between digital microscopy and light microscopy, we demonstrate five main diagnostic pitfalls regarding WSI as follows: additional time to review slides in WSI, hard to identify dysplasia nucleus, missed organisms like Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori), specific cell recognitions, and technical issues. After detailed reviews and analysis, we generate two essential suggestions for further GI cases signing out by DM. One is to use systematized 20x scans for diagnostic workouts and requesting 40x or even 60x scans for challenging cases; another is that a high-volume slides training should be set before the real clinical application of WSI for primary diagnosis, particularly in GI pathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wangpan Shi
- Pathology, California Institute of Behavioral Neurosciences & Psychology, Fairfield, USA
| | - Petros Georgiou
- Internal Medicine, California Institute of Behavioral Neurosciences & Psychology, Fairfield, USA.,Department of Oncology, Oxford University, Oxford, GBR
| | - Aqsa Akram
- Internal Medicine, California Institute of Behavioral Neurosciences & Psychology, Fairfield, USA
| | - Matthew C Proute
- Internal Medicine, California Institute of Behavioral Neurosciences & Psychology, Fairfield, USA
| | - Tatsiana Serhiyenia
- Internal Medicine, California Institute of Behavioral Neurosciences & Psychology, Fairfield, USA
| | - Mina E Kerolos
- General Medicine, California Institute of Behavioral Neurosciences & Psychology, Fairfield, USA
| | - Roshini Pradeep
- Internal Medicine, California Institute of Behavioral Neurosciences & Psychology, Fairfield, USA
| | - Nageshwar R Kothur
- Internal Medicine, California Institute of Behavioral Neurosciences & Psychology, Fairfield, USA
| | - Safeera Khan
- Internal Medicine, California Institute of Behavioral Neurosciences & Psychology, Fairfield, USA
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16
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Colling R, Colling H, Browning L, Verrill C. Validation of grading of non-invasive urothelial carcinoma by digital pathology for routine diagnosis. BMC Cancer 2021; 21:995. [PMID: 34488682 PMCID: PMC8420048 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-021-08698-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2021] [Accepted: 08/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Pathological grading of non-invasive urothelial carcinoma has a direct impact upon management. This study evaluates the reproducibility of grading these tumours on glass slides and digital pathology. Methods Forty eight non-invasive urothelial bladder carcinomas were graded by three uropathologists on glass and on a digital platform using the 1973 WHO and 2004 ISUP/WHO systems. Results Consensus grades for glass and digital grading gave Cohen’s kappa scores of 0.78 (2004) and 0.82 (1973). Of 142 decisions made on the key therapeutic borderline of low grade versus high grade urothelial carcinoma (2004) by the three pathologists, 85% were in agreement. For the 1973 grading system, agreement overall was 90%. Conclusions Agreement on grading on glass slide and digital screen assessment is similar or in some cases improved, suggesting at least non-inferiority of DP for grading of non-invasive urothelial carcinoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard Colling
- Nuffield Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Oxford, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, OX3 9DU, UK. .,Department of Cellular Pathology, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Trust, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, OX3 9DU, UK.
| | - Hayleigh Colling
- Nuffield Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Oxford, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, OX3 9DU, UK
| | - Lisa Browning
- Department of Cellular Pathology, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Trust, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, OX3 9DU, UK.,NIHR Oxford Biomedical Research Centre, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, Oxfordshire, UK
| | - Clare Verrill
- Nuffield Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Oxford, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, OX3 9DU, UK.,Department of Cellular Pathology, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Trust, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, OX3 9DU, UK.,NIHR Oxford Biomedical Research Centre, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, Oxfordshire, UK
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17
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Rajaganesan S, Kumar R, Rao V, Pai T, Mittal N, Sahay A, Menon S, Desai S. Comparative Assessment of Digital Pathology Systems for Primary Diagnosis. J Pathol Inform 2021; 12:25. [PMID: 34447605 PMCID: PMC8356707 DOI: 10.4103/jpi.jpi_94_20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2020] [Revised: 12/09/2020] [Accepted: 01/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Despite increasing interest in whole-slide imaging (WSI) over optical microscopy (OM), limited information on comparative assessment of various digital pathology systems (DPSs) is available. Materials and Methods: A comprehensive evaluation was undertaken to investigate the technical performance–assessment and diagnostic accuracy of four DPSs with an objective to establish the noninferiority of WSI over OM and find out the best possible DPS for clinical workflow. Results: A total of 2376 digital images, 15,775 image reads (OM - 3171 + WSI - 12,404), and 6100 diagnostic reads (OM - 1245, WSI - 4855) were generated across four DPSs (coded as DPS: 1, 2, 3, and 4) using a total 240 cases (604 slides). Onsite technical evaluation revealed successful scan rate: DPS3 < DPS2 < DPS4 < DPS1; mean scanning time: DPS4 < DPS1 < DPS2 < DPS3; and average storage space: DPS3 < DPS2 < DPS1 < DPS4. Overall diagnostic accuracy, when compared with the reference standard for OM and WSI, was 95.44% (including 2.48% minor and 2.08% major discordances) and 93.32% (including 4.28% minor and 2.4% major discordances), respectively. The difference between the clinically significant discordances by WSI versus OM was 0.32%. Major discordances were observed mostly using DPS4 and least in DPS1; however, the difference was statistically insignificant. Almost perfect (κ ≥ 0.8)/substantial (κ = 0.6–0.8) inter/intra-observer agreement between WSI and OM was observed for all specimen types, except cytology. Overall image quality was best for DPS1 followed by DPS4. Mean digital artifact rate was 6.8% (163/2376 digital images) and maximum artifacts were noted in DPS2 (n = 77) followed by DPS3 (n = 36). Most pathologists preferred viewing software of DPS1 and DPS2. Conclusion: WSI was noninferior to OM for all specimen types, except for cytology. Each DPS has its own pros and cons; however, DPS1 closely emulated the real-world clinical environment. This evaluation is intended to provide a roadmap to pathologists for the selection of the appropriate DPSs while adopting WSI.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Rajiv Kumar
- Department of Pathology, Tata Memorial Hospital, Homi Bhabha National Institute, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
| | - Vidya Rao
- Department of Pathology, Tata Memorial Hospital, Homi Bhabha National Institute, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
| | - Trupti Pai
- Department of Pathology, Tata Memorial Hospital, Homi Bhabha National Institute, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
| | - Neha Mittal
- Department of Pathology, Tata Memorial Hospital, Homi Bhabha National Institute, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
| | - Ayushi Sahay
- Department of Pathology, Tata Memorial Hospital, Homi Bhabha National Institute, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
| | - Santosh Menon
- Department of Pathology, Tata Memorial Hospital, Homi Bhabha National Institute, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
| | - Sangeeta Desai
- Department of Pathology, Tata Memorial Hospital, Homi Bhabha National Institute, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
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18
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Bertram CA, Stathonikos N, Donovan TA, Bartel A, Fuchs-Baumgartinger A, Lipnik K, van Diest PJ, Bonsembiante F, Klopfleisch R. Validation of digital microscopy: Review of validation methods and sources of bias. Vet Pathol 2021; 59:26-38. [PMID: 34433345 PMCID: PMC8761960 DOI: 10.1177/03009858211040476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Digital microscopy (DM) is increasingly replacing traditional light microscopy (LM) for performing routine diagnostic and research work in human and veterinary pathology. The DM workflow encompasses specimen preparation, whole-slide image acquisition, slide retrieval, and the workstation, each of which has the potential (depending on the technical parameters) to introduce limitations and artifacts into microscopic examination by pathologists. Performing validation studies according to guidelines established in human pathology ensures that the best-practice approaches for patient care are not deteriorated by implementing DM. Whereas current publications on validation studies suggest an overall high reliability of DM, each laboratory is encouraged to perform an individual validation study to ensure that the DM workflow performs as expected in the respective clinical or research environment. With the exception of validation guidelines developed by the College of American Pathologists in 2013 and its update in 2021, there is no current review of the application of methods fundamental to validation. We highlight that there is high methodological variation between published validation studies, each having advantages and limitations. The diagnostic concordance rate between DM and LM is the most relevant outcome measure, which is influenced (regardless of the viewing modality used) by different sources of bias including complexity of the cases examined, diagnostic experience of the study pathologists, and case recall. Here, we review 3 general study designs used for previous publications on DM validation as well as different approaches for avoiding bias.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christof A Bertram
- University of Veterinary Medicine, Vienna, Austria.,Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
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19
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Browning L, Colling R, Verrill C. WHO/ISUP grading of clear cell renal cell carcinoma and papillary renal cell carcinoma; validation of grading on the digital pathology platform and perspectives on reproducibility of grade. Diagn Pathol 2021; 16:75. [PMID: 34419085 PMCID: PMC8380382 DOI: 10.1186/s13000-021-01130-2] [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: 02/01/2021] [Accepted: 07/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background There are recognised potential pitfalls in digital diagnosis in urological pathology, including the grading of dysplasia. The World Health Organisation/International Society of Urological Pathology (WHO/ISUP) grading system for renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is prognostically important in clear cell RCC (CCRCC) and papillary RCC (PRCC), and is included in risk stratification scores for CCRCC, thus impacting on patient management. To date there are no systematic studies examining the concordance of WHO/ISUP grading between digital pathology (DP) and glass slide (GS) images. We present a validation study examining intraobserver agreement in WHO/ISUP grade of CCRCC and PRCC. Methods Fifty CCRCCs and 10 PRCCs were graded (WHO/ISUP system) by three specialist uropathologists on three separate occasions (DP once then two GS assessments; GS1 and GS2) separated by wash-out periods of at least two-weeks. The grade was recorded for each assessment, and compared using Cohen’s and Fleiss’s kappa. Results There was 65 to 78% concordance of WHO/ISUP grading on DP and GS1. Furthermore, for the individual pathologists, the comparative kappa scores for DP versus GS1, and GS1 versus GS2, were 0.70 and 0.70, 0.57 and 0.73, and 0.71 and 0.74, and with no apparent tendency to upgrade or downgrade on DP versus GS. The interobserver kappa agreement was less, at 0.58 on DP and 0.45 on GS. Conclusion Our results demonstrate that the assessment of WHO/ISUP grade on DP is noninferior to that on GS. There is an apparent slight improvement in agreement between pathologists on RCC grade when assessed on DP, which may warrant further study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa Browning
- Department of Cellular Pathology, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Trust, John Radcliffe Hospital, Headley Way, OX3 9DU, Oxford, UK. .,NIHR Oxford Biomedical Research Centre, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, Oxfordshire, UK.
| | - Richard Colling
- Department of Cellular Pathology, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Trust, John Radcliffe Hospital, Headley Way, OX3 9DU, Oxford, UK.,Nuffield Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Oxford, John Radcliffe Hospital, OX3 9DU, Oxford, UK
| | - Clare Verrill
- Department of Cellular Pathology, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Trust, John Radcliffe Hospital, Headley Way, OX3 9DU, Oxford, UK.,NIHR Oxford Biomedical Research Centre, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, Oxfordshire, UK.,Nuffield Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Oxford, John Radcliffe Hospital, OX3 9DU, Oxford, UK
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20
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Katare P, Gorthi SS. Recent technical advances in whole slide imaging instrumentation. J Microsc 2021; 284:103-117. [PMID: 34254690 DOI: 10.1111/jmi.13049] [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: 03/20/2021] [Revised: 07/05/2021] [Accepted: 07/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Microscopic observation of biological specimen smears is the mainstay of diagnostic pathology, as defined by the Digital Pathology Association. Though automated systems for this are commercially available, their bulky size and high cost renders them unusable for remote areas. The research community is investing much effort towards building equivalent but portable, low-cost systems. An overview of such research is presented here, including a comparative analysis of recent reports. This paper also reviews recently reported systems for automated staining and smear formation, including microfluidic devices; and optical and computational automated microscopy systems including smartphone-based devices. Image pre-processing and analysis methods for automated diagnosis are also briefly discussed. It concludes with a set of foreseeable research directions that could lead to affordable, integrated and accurate whole slide imaging systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Prateek Katare
- Department of Instrumentation and Applied Physics, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore, India
| | - Sai Siva Gorthi
- Department of Instrumentation and Applied Physics, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore, India
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21
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Azam AS, Miligy IM, Kimani PKU, Maqbool H, Hewitt K, Rajpoot NM, Snead DRJ. Diagnostic concordance and discordance in digital pathology: a systematic review and meta-analysis. J Clin Pathol 2021; 74:448-455. [PMID: 32934103 PMCID: PMC8223673 DOI: 10.1136/jclinpath-2020-206764] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2020] [Accepted: 07/10/2020] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Digital pathology (DP) has the potential to fundamentally change the way that histopathology is practised, by streamlining the workflow, increasing efficiency, improving diagnostic accuracy and facilitating the platform for implementation of artificial intelligence-based computer-assisted diagnostics. Although the barriers to wider adoption of DP have been multifactorial, limited evidence of reliability has been a significant contributor. A meta-analysis to demonstrate the combined accuracy and reliability of DP is still lacking in the literature. OBJECTIVES We aimed to review the published literature on the diagnostic use of DP and to synthesise a statistically pooled evidence on safety and reliability of DP for routine diagnosis (primary and secondary) in the context of validation process. METHODS A comprehensive literature search was conducted through PubMed, Medline, EMBASE, Cochrane Library and Google Scholar for studies published between 2013 and August 2019. The search protocol identified all studies comparing DP with light microscopy (LM) reporting for diagnostic purposes, predominantly including H&E-stained slides. Random-effects meta-analysis was used to pool evidence from the studies. RESULTS Twenty-five studies were deemed eligible to be included in the review which examined a total of 10 410 histology samples (average sample size 176). For overall concordance (clinical concordance), the agreement percentage was 98.3% (95% CI 97.4 to 98.9) across 24 studies. A total of 546 major discordances were reported across 25 studies. Over half (57%) of these were related to assessment of nuclear atypia, grading of dysplasia and malignancy. These were followed by challenging diagnoses (26%) and identification of small objects (16%). CONCLUSION The results of this meta-analysis indicate equivalent performance of DP in comparison with LM for routine diagnosis. Furthermore, the results provide valuable information concerning the areas of diagnostic discrepancy which may warrant particular attention in the transition to DP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayesha S Azam
- Cellular Pathology, University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire NHS Trust, Coventry, Coventry, UK
- Tissue Image Analytics Laboratory, Department of Computer Science, University of Warwick, Coventry, West Midlands, UK
| | - Islam M Miligy
- Nottingham Breast Cancer Research Centre (NBCRC), School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, Nottinghamshire, UK
| | - Peter K-U Kimani
- Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, West Midlands, UK
| | - Heeba Maqbool
- Cellular Pathology, University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire NHS Trust, Coventry, Coventry, UK
| | - Katherine Hewitt
- Cellular Pathology, University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire NHS Trust, Coventry, Coventry, UK
| | - Nasir M Rajpoot
- Tissue Image Analytics Laboratory, Department of Computer Science, University of Warwick, Coventry, West Midlands, UK
| | - David R J Snead
- Cellular Pathology, University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire NHS Trust, Coventry, Coventry, UK
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22
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Samuelson MI, Chen SJ, Boukhar SA, Schnieders EM, Walhof ML, Bellizzi AM, Robinson RA, Rajan K D A. Rapid Validation of Whole-Slide Imaging for Primary Histopathology Diagnosis. Am J Clin Pathol 2021; 155:638-648. [PMID: 33511392 PMCID: PMC7929400 DOI: 10.1093/ajcp/aqaa280] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The ongoing global severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) pandemic necessitates adaptations in the practice of surgical pathology at scale. Primary diagnosis by whole-slide imaging (WSI) is a key component that would aid departments in providing uninterrupted histopathology diagnosis and maintaining revenue streams from disruption. We sought to perform rapid validation of the use of WSI in primary diagnosis meeting recommendations of the College of American Pathologists guidelines. METHODS Glass slides from clinically reported cases from 5 participating pathologists with a preset washout period were digitally scanned and reviewed in settings identical to typical reporting. Cases were classified as concordant or with minor or major disagreement with the original diagnosis. Randomized subsampling was performed, and mean concordance rates were calculated. RESULTS In total, 171 cases were included and distributed equally among participants. For the group as a whole, the mean concordance rate in sampled cases (n = 90) was 83.6% counting all discrepancies and 94.6% counting only major disagreements. The mean pathologist concordance rate in sampled cases (n = 18) ranged from 90.49% to 97%. CONCLUSIONS We describe a novel double-blinded method for rapid validation of WSI for primary diagnosis. Our findings highlight the occurrence of a range of diagnostic reproducibility when deploying digital methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megan I Samuelson
- Department of Pathology, University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Stephanie J Chen
- Department of Pathology, University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Sarag A Boukhar
- Department of Pathology, University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Eric M Schnieders
- Roy J. and Lucille A. Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Mackenzie L Walhof
- Roy J. and Lucille A. Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Andrew M Bellizzi
- Department of Pathology, University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Robert A Robinson
- Department of Pathology, University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Anand Rajan K D
- Department of Pathology, University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
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23
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Breast Digital Pathology: Way of the Future. CURRENT BREAST CANCER REPORTS 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s12609-021-00413-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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24
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Gavrielides MA, Ronnett BM, Vang R, Sheikhzadeh F, Seidman JD. Selection of Representative Histologic Slides in Interobserver Reproducibility Studies: Insights from Expert Review for Ovarian Carcinoma Subtype Classification. J Pathol Inform 2021; 12:15. [PMID: 34012719 PMCID: PMC8112350 DOI: 10.4103/jpi.jpi_56_20] [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: 06/25/2020] [Revised: 09/02/2020] [Accepted: 10/28/2020] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Observer studies in pathology often utilize a limited number of representative slides per case, selected and reported in a nonstandardized manner. Reference diagnoses are commonly assumed to be generalizable to all slides of a case. We examined these issues in the context of pathologist concordance for histologic subtype classification of ovarian carcinomas (OCs). MATERIALS AND METHODS A cohort of 114 OCs consisting of 72 cases with a single representative slide (Group 1) and 42 cases with multiple representative slides (148 slides, 2-6 sections per case, Group 2) was independently reviewed by three experts in gynecologic pathology (case-based review). In a follow-up study, each individual slide was independently reviewed in a randomized order by the same pathologists (section-based review). RESULTS Average interobserver concordance varied from 100% for Group 1 to 64.3% for Group 2 (86.8% across all cases). Across Group 2, 19 cases (45.2%) had at least one slide classified as a different subtype than the subtype assigned from case-based review, demonstrating the impact of intratumoral heterogeneity. Section-based concordance across individual sections from Group 2 was comparable to case-based concordance for those cases indicating diagnostic challenges at the individual section level. Findings demonstrate the increased diagnostic complexity of heterogeneous tumors that require multiple section sampling and its impact on pathologist performance. CONCLUSIONS The proportion of cases with multiple representative slides in cohorts used in validation studies, such as those conducted to evaluate artificial intelligence/machine learning tools, can influence diagnostic performance, and if not accounted for, can cause disparities between research and real-world observations and between research studies. Case selection in validation studies should account for tumor heterogeneity to create balanced datasets in terms of diagnostic complexity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marios A. Gavrielides
- Division of Imaging, Diagnostics, and Software Reliability, Office of Science and Engineering Laboratories, Center for Devices and Radiological Health, U.S. Food and Drug Administration, Silver Spring, Maryland, USA, (Currently at AstraZeneca, Precision Medicine and Biosamples, Gaithersburg, Maryland, USA)
| | - Brigitte M. Ronnett
- Department of Pathology and Gynecology and Obstetrics, The Johns Hopkins Hospital, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Russell Vang
- Department of Pathology and Gynecology and Obstetrics, The Johns Hopkins Hospital, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Fahime Sheikhzadeh
- Electrical and Computer Engineering Department, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada, (Currently at Roche Diagnostics, San Francisco, California, USA)
| | - Jeffrey D Seidman
- Division of Molecular Genetics and Pathology, Office of In Vitro Diagnostics and Radiological Health, Office of Product Evaluation and Quality, Center for Devices and Radiological Health, U.S. Food and Drug Administration, Silver Spring, Maryland, USA
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25
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van den Brand M, Nooijen PTGA, van der Laan KD, de Bruin PC, van Leeuwen AMG, Leeuwis JW, Meijer JW, Otte-Höller I, Hebeda KM. Discrepancies in digital hematopathology diagnoses for consultation and expert panel analysis. Virchows Arch 2021; 478:535-540. [PMID: 32840673 PMCID: PMC7973407 DOI: 10.1007/s00428-020-02907-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2019] [Revised: 07/23/2020] [Accepted: 08/10/2020] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Digital pathology with whole-slide imaging (WSI) has a large potential to make the process of expert consultation and expert panel diagnosis more rapid and more efficient. However, comparison with the current methods is necessary for validation of the technique. In this study, we determined if digital assessment of whole-slide images of hematopathology specimens with a focus on the assessment of lymphoma can be used for consultation and panel diagnostics. Ninety-three histological specimens with a suspicion for lymphoma were assessed both with conventional microscopy and digital microscopy with a wash out period between assessments. A consensus diagnosis was based on full concordance between the pathologists or, in case of discordances, was reached at a joint session at a multi-headed microscope. In 81% of the cases, there was a full concordance between digital and light microscopical assessment for all three pathologists. Discordances between conventional microscopy and digital pathology were present in 3% of assessments. In comparison with the consensus diagnosis, discordant diagnoses were made in 5 cases with digital microscopy and in 3 cases with light microscopy. The reported level of confidence and need for additional investigations were similar between assessment by conventional and by digital microscopy. In conclusion, the performance of assessment by digital pathology is in general comparable with that of conventional light microscopy and pathologists feel confident using digital pathology for this subspecialty.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michiel van den Brand
- Department of Pathology, Radboud University Medical Center, P. O. Box 9101, 6500, HB, Nijmegen, The Netherlands.
- Pathology-DNA, Rijnstate Hospital, Arnhem, The Netherlands.
| | | | - Kimberly D van der Laan
- Department of Pathology, Radboud University Medical Center, P. O. Box 9101, 6500, HB, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Peter C de Bruin
- Pathology-DNA, St. Antonius Hospital, Nieuwegein, The Netherlands
| | | | | | - Jos W Meijer
- Pathology-DNA, Rijnstate Hospital, Arnhem, The Netherlands
| | - Irene Otte-Höller
- Department of Pathology, Radboud University Medical Center, P. O. Box 9101, 6500, HB, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Konnie M Hebeda
- Department of Pathology, Radboud University Medical Center, P. O. Box 9101, 6500, HB, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
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26
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Giaretto S, Renne SL, Rahal D, Bossi P, Colombo P, Spaggiari P, Manara S, Sollai M, Fiamengo B, Brambilla T, Fernandes B, Rao S, Elamin A, Valeri M, De Carlo C, Belsito V, Lancellotti C, Cieri M, Cagini A, Terracciano L, Roncalli M, Di Tommaso L. Digital Pathology During the COVID-19 Outbreak in Italy: Survey Study. J Med Internet Res 2021; 23:e24266. [PMID: 33503002 PMCID: PMC7901595 DOI: 10.2196/24266] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2020] [Revised: 12/09/2020] [Accepted: 12/14/2020] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Transition to digital pathology usually takes months or years to be completed. We were familiarizing ourselves with digital pathology solutions at the time when the COVID-19 outbreak forced us to embark on an abrupt transition to digital pathology. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to quantitatively describe how the abrupt transition to digital pathology might affect the quality of diagnoses, model possible causes by probabilistic modeling, and qualitatively gauge the perception of this abrupt transition. METHODS A total of 17 pathologists and residents participated in this study; these participants reviewed 25 additional test cases from the archives and completed a final psychologic survey. For each case, participants performed several different diagnostic tasks, and their results were recorded and compared with the original diagnoses performed using the gold standard method (ie, conventional microscopy). We performed Bayesian data analysis with probabilistic modeling. RESULTS The overall analysis, comprising 1345 different items, resulted in a 9% (117/1345) error rate in using digital slides. The task of differentiating a neoplastic process from a nonneoplastic one accounted for an error rate of 10.7% (42/392), whereas the distinction of a malignant process from a benign one accounted for an error rate of 4.2% (11/258). Apart from residents, senior pathologists generated most discrepancies (7.9%, 13/164). Our model showed that these differences among career levels persisted even after adjusting for other factors. CONCLUSIONS Our findings are in line with previous findings, emphasizing that the duration of transition (ie, lengthy or abrupt) might not influence the diagnostic performance. Moreover, our findings highlight that senior pathologists may be limited by a digital gap, which may negatively affect their performance with digital pathology. These results can guide the process of digital transition in the field of pathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simone Giaretto
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Pieve Emanuele (MI), Italy
| | - Salvatore Lorenzo Renne
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Pieve Emanuele (MI), Italy
- Department of Pathology, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center - IRCCS, Rozzano (MI), Italy
| | - Daoud Rahal
- Department of Pathology, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center - IRCCS, Rozzano (MI), Italy
| | - Paola Bossi
- Department of Pathology, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center - IRCCS, Rozzano (MI), Italy
| | - Piergiuseppe Colombo
- Department of Pathology, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center - IRCCS, Rozzano (MI), Italy
| | - Paola Spaggiari
- Department of Pathology, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center - IRCCS, Rozzano (MI), Italy
| | - Sofia Manara
- Department of Pathology, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center - IRCCS, Rozzano (MI), Italy
| | - Mauro Sollai
- Department of Pathology, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center - IRCCS, Rozzano (MI), Italy
| | - Barbara Fiamengo
- Department of Pathology, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center - IRCCS, Rozzano (MI), Italy
| | - Tatiana Brambilla
- Department of Pathology, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center - IRCCS, Rozzano (MI), Italy
| | - Bethania Fernandes
- Department of Pathology, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center - IRCCS, Rozzano (MI), Italy
| | - Stefania Rao
- Department of Pathology, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center - IRCCS, Rozzano (MI), Italy
| | - Abubaker Elamin
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Pieve Emanuele (MI), Italy
| | - Marina Valeri
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Pieve Emanuele (MI), Italy
- Department of Pathology, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center - IRCCS, Rozzano (MI), Italy
| | - Camilla De Carlo
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Pieve Emanuele (MI), Italy
- Department of Pathology, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center - IRCCS, Rozzano (MI), Italy
| | - Vincenzo Belsito
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Pieve Emanuele (MI), Italy
- Department of Pathology, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center - IRCCS, Rozzano (MI), Italy
| | - Cesare Lancellotti
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Pieve Emanuele (MI), Italy
- Department of Pathology, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center - IRCCS, Rozzano (MI), Italy
| | - Miriam Cieri
- Department of Pathology, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center - IRCCS, Rozzano (MI), Italy
| | - Angelo Cagini
- Department of Pathology, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center - IRCCS, Rozzano (MI), Italy
| | - Luigi Terracciano
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Pieve Emanuele (MI), Italy
- Department of Pathology, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center - IRCCS, Rozzano (MI), Italy
| | - Massimo Roncalli
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Pieve Emanuele (MI), Italy
- Department of Pathology, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center - IRCCS, Rozzano (MI), Italy
| | - Luca Di Tommaso
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Pieve Emanuele (MI), Italy
- Department of Pathology, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center - IRCCS, Rozzano (MI), Italy
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Babawale M, Gunavardhan A, Walker J, Corfield T, Huey P, Savage A, Bansal A, Atkinson M, Abdelsalam H, Raweily E, Christian A, Evangelou I, Thomas D, Shannon J, Youd E, Brumwell P, Harrison J, Thompson I, Rashid M, Leopold G, Finall A, Roberts S, Housa D, Nedeva P, Davies A, Fletcher D, Aslam M. Verification and Validation of Digital Pathology (Whole Slide Imaging) for Primary Histopathological Diagnosis: All Wales Experience. J Pathol Inform 2021; 12:4. [PMID: 34012708 PMCID: PMC8112347 DOI: 10.4103/jpi.jpi_55_20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2020] [Revised: 07/03/2020] [Accepted: 10/01/2020] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Aims: The study is aimed to verify Aperio AT2 scanner for reporting on the digital pathology platform (DP) and to validate the cohort of pathologists in the interpretation of DP for routine diagnostic histopathological services in Wales, United Kingdom. Materials, Methods and Results: This was a large multicenter study involving seven hospitals across Wales and unique with 22 (largest number) pathologists participating. 7491 slides from 3001 cases were scanned on Leica Aperio AT2 scanner and reported on digital workstations with Leica software of e-slide manager. A senior pathology fellow compared DP reports with authorized reports on glass slide (GS). A panel of expert pathologists reviewed the discrepant cases under multiheader microscope to establish ground truth. 2745 out of 3001 (91%) cases showed complete concordance between DP and GS reports. Two hundred and fifty-six cases showed discrepancies in diagnosis, of which 170 (5.6%) were deemed of no clinical significance by the review panel. There were 86 (2.9%) clinically significant discrepancies in the diagnosis between DP and GS. The concordance was raised to 97.1% after discounting clinically insignificant discrepancies. Ground truth lay with DP in 28 out of 86 clinically significant discrepancies and with GS in 58 cases. Sensitivity of DP was 98.07% (confidence interval [CI] 97.57–98.56%); for GS was 99.07% (CI 98.72–99.41%). Conclusions: We concluded that Leica Aperio AT2 scanner produces adequate quality of images for routine histopathologic diagnosis. Pathologists were able to diagnose in DP with good concordance as with GS. Strengths and Limitations of this Study: Strengths of this study – This was a prospective blind study. Different pathologists reported digital and glass arms at different times giving an ambience of real-time reporting. There was standardized use of software and hardware across Wales. A strong managerial support from efficiency through the technology group was a key factor for the implementation of the study. Limitations: This study did not include Cytopathology and in situ hybridization slides. Difficulty in achieving surgical pathology practise standardization across the whole country contributed to intra-observer variations.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Babawale
- Department of Cellular Pathology, Glan Clwyd Hospital, Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board, Bodelwyddan, Wales
| | - A Gunavardhan
- Department of Cellular Pathology, Glan Clwyd Hospital, Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board, Bodelwyddan, Wales
| | - J Walker
- Department of Anaesthetics, Gwynedd Hospital, Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board, Bangor, Wales
| | - T Corfield
- Department of Cellular Pathology, Glan Clwyd Hospital, Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board, Bodelwyddan, Wales
| | - P Huey
- Department of Cellular Pathology, Glan Clwyd Hospital, Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board, Bodelwyddan, Wales
| | - A Savage
- Department of Cellular Pathology, Glan Clwyd Hospital, Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board, Bodelwyddan, Wales
| | - A Bansal
- Department of Cellular Pathology, Glan Clwyd Hospital, Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board, Bodelwyddan, Wales
| | - M Atkinson
- Department of Cellular Pathology, Glan Clwyd Hospital, Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board, Bodelwyddan, Wales
| | - H Abdelsalam
- Department of Cellular Pathology, Glan Clwyd Hospital, Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board, Bodelwyddan, Wales
| | - E Raweily
- Department of Cellular Pathology, Glan Clwyd Hospital, Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board, Bodelwyddan, Wales
| | - A Christian
- Department of Histopathology, University Hospital of Wales, Cardiff and Vale University Health Board, Cardiff, Wales
| | - I Evangelou
- Department of Histopathology, University Hospital of Wales, Cardiff and Vale University Health Board, Cardiff, Wales
| | - D Thomas
- Department of Histopathology, University Hospital of Wales, Cardiff and Vale University Health Board, Cardiff, Wales
| | - J Shannon
- Department of Histopathology, Royal Glamorgan Hospital, Cwm Taf University Health Board, Rhondda Cynon Taff, Wales
| | - E Youd
- Department of Histopathology, Royal Glamorgan Hospital, Cwm Taf University Health Board, Rhondda Cynon Taff, Wales
| | - P Brumwell
- Department of Histopathology, Royal Glamorgan Hospital, Cwm Taf University Health Board, Rhondda Cynon Taff, Wales
| | - J Harrison
- Department of Histopathology, Royal Gwent Hospital, Aneurin Bevan University Health Board, Newport, Wales
| | - I Thompson
- Department of Histopathology, Royal Gwent Hospital, Aneurin Bevan University Health Board, Newport, Wales
| | - M Rashid
- Department of Histopathology, Royal Gwent Hospital, Aneurin Bevan University Health Board, Newport, Wales
| | - G Leopold
- Department of Cellular Pathology, Morriston Hospital Swansea Bay University Health Board, Port Talbot, Wales
| | - A Finall
- Department of Cellular Pathology, Morriston Hospital Swansea Bay University Health Board, Port Talbot, Wales.,Abertawe Bro Morgannwg Health Board, Port Talbot, Wales
| | - S Roberts
- Department of Cellular Pathology, Singleton Hospital, Abertawe Bro Morgannwg Health Board, Port Talbot, Wales
| | - D Housa
- Department of Histopathology, Glangwilli Hospital, Hywel Dda University Health Board, Carmarthen, Wales
| | - P Nedeva
- Department of Histopathology, Glangwilli Hospital, Hywel Dda University Health Board, Carmarthen, Wales
| | - A Davies
- Department of Cellular Pathology, Glan Clwyd Hospital, Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board, Bodelwyddan, Wales
| | - D Fletcher
- Department of Cellular Pathology, Glan Clwyd Hospital, Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board, Bodelwyddan, Wales
| | - Muhammad Aslam
- Department of Cellular Pathology, Glan Clwyd Hospital, Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board, Bodelwyddan, Wales
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28
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Rao V, Kumar R, Rajaganesan S, Rane S, Deshpande G, Yadav S, Patil A, Pai T, Menon S, Shah A, Rabade K, Ramadwar M, Panjwani P, Mittal N, Sahay A, Rekhi B, Bal M, Sakhadeo U, Gujral S, Desai S. Remote Reporting from Home for Primary Diagnosis in Surgical Pathology: A Tertiary Oncology Center Experience during the COVID-19 Pandemic. J Pathol Inform 2021; 12:3. [PMID: 34012707 PMCID: PMC8112339 DOI: 10.4103/jpi.jpi_72_20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2020] [Revised: 10/13/2020] [Accepted: 10/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the widespread adoption of digital pathology (DP) for primary diagnosis in surgical pathology. This paradigm shift is likely to influence how we function routinely in the postpandemic era. We present learnings from early adoption of DP for a live digital sign-out from home in a risk-mitigated environment. MATERIALS AND METHODS We aimed to validate DP for remote reporting from home in a real-time environment and evaluate the parameters influencing the efficiency of a digital workflow. Eighteen pathologists prospectively validated DP for remote use on 567 biopsy cases including 616 individual parts from 7 subspecialties over a duration from March 21, 2020, to June 30, 2020. The slides were digitized using Roche Ventana DP200 whole-slide scanner and reported from respective homes in a risk-mitigated environment. RESULTS Following re-review of glass slides, there was no major discordance and 1.2% (n = 7/567) minor discordance. The deferral rate was 4.5%. All pathologists reported from their respective homes from laptops with an average network speed of 20 megabits per second. CONCLUSION We successfully validated and adopted a digital workflow for remote reporting with available resources and were able to provide our patients, an undisrupted access to subspecialty expertise during these unprecedented times.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vidya Rao
- Department of Pathology, Tata Memorial Centre, Homi Bhabha National Institute, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
| | - Rajiv Kumar
- Department of Pathology, Tata Memorial Centre, Homi Bhabha National Institute, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
| | | | - Swapnil Rane
- Department of Pathology, Tata Memorial Centre, Homi Bhabha National Institute, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
| | - Gauri Deshpande
- Department of Pathology, Tata Memorial Centre, Homi Bhabha National Institute, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
| | - Subhash Yadav
- Department of Pathology, Tata Memorial Centre, Homi Bhabha National Institute, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
| | - Asawari Patil
- Department of Pathology, Tata Memorial Centre, Homi Bhabha National Institute, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
| | - Trupti Pai
- Department of Pathology, Tata Memorial Centre, Homi Bhabha National Institute, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
| | - Santosh Menon
- Department of Pathology, Tata Memorial Centre, Homi Bhabha National Institute, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
| | - Aekta Shah
- Department of Pathology, Tata Memorial Centre, Homi Bhabha National Institute, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
| | - Katha Rabade
- Department of Pathology, Tata Memorial Centre, Homi Bhabha National Institute, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
| | - Mukta Ramadwar
- Department of Pathology, Tata Memorial Centre, Homi Bhabha National Institute, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
| | - Poonam Panjwani
- Department of Pathology, Tata Memorial Centre, Homi Bhabha National Institute, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
| | - Neha Mittal
- Department of Pathology, Tata Memorial Centre, Homi Bhabha National Institute, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
| | - Ayushi Sahay
- Department of Pathology, Tata Memorial Centre, Homi Bhabha National Institute, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
| | - Bharat Rekhi
- Department of Pathology, Tata Memorial Centre, Homi Bhabha National Institute, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
| | - Munita Bal
- Department of Pathology, Tata Memorial Centre, Homi Bhabha National Institute, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
| | - Uma Sakhadeo
- Department of Pathology, Tata Memorial Centre, Homi Bhabha National Institute, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
| | - Sumeet Gujral
- Department of Pathology, Tata Memorial Centre, Homi Bhabha National Institute, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
| | - Sangeeta Desai
- Department of Pathology, Tata Memorial Centre, Homi Bhabha National Institute, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
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29
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Diniz PB, Sena-Filho M, Graner KM, Mariz BA, Reis LA, Almeida OP, Jorge J. Comparison of the whole slide imaging and conventional light microscopy in the grading of oral epithelial dysplasia: a multi-institutional study. Med Oral Patol Oral Cir Bucal 2021; 26:e8-e13. [PMID: 33247580 PMCID: PMC7806346 DOI: 10.4317/medoral.23854] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2020] [Accepted: 10/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Whole Slide Imaging (WSI) is an alternative method to light microscopy (LM). However, few studies have compared the diagnostic agreement between WSI and LM, especially to grade oral epithelial dysplasia (OED). The purpose of this study was to evaluate the variability in grading OED by the World Health Organization grading system, using WSI and conventional LM, and to investigate whether the access to clinical information, and psychologic or physical states of the pathologists could interfere with the diagnosis.
Material and Methods eleven experienced pathologists from seven Brazilian universities independently evaluated twenty-five OED cases. The analyses were performed in duplicate for each method, with an interval of at least 30 days, and the time consumed in each analysis was measured. Physical and psychologic states were evaluated by blood pressure levels, heart rate and two questionnaires: State-Trait Anxiety Inventory and Perceived Stress Scale. Clinical information was provided after the second evaluation using WSI and the pathologist could change their diagnostic decision or not.
Results LM showed a higher inter-examiner agreement (k=0.53) than WSI (k=0.45) and a smaller time consumed by the pathologists (mean of 65.53 seconds compared to 91.02 seconds in WSI). In the first analysis using conventional microscopy, there was a positive correlation between kappa values and anxiety (r=0.47, p=0.02), and stress (r=0.64, p<0.01), and an inverse correlation with heart rate (r=-0.48, p=0.02). In the digital analysis, there was also a positive correlation between kappa values and anxiety (r=0.75, p<0.001). After clinical information was given, there was a slight change in 11.3% of the cases, and a great discrepancy in 1.1% of the cases, mainly increasing the OED grade.
Conclusions both microscopy systems had similar results, although LM had slightly higher kappa values, and WSI was more time consuming. Key words:Pathology, microscopy, diagnosis, leukoplakia oral, anxiety.
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Affiliation(s)
- P-B Diniz
- Department of Oral Diagnosis, Piracicaba Dental School University of Campinas (UNICAMP) 901, Limeira Av., Areião, Piracicaba, São Paulo, Brazil
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30
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Rakha EA, Toss M, Shiino S, Gamble P, Jaroensri R, Mermel CH, Chen PHC. Current and future applications of artificial intelligence in pathology: a clinical perspective. J Clin Pathol 2020; 74:409-414. [PMID: 32763920 DOI: 10.1136/jclinpath-2020-206908] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2020] [Accepted: 07/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
During the last decade, a dramatic rise in the development and application of artificial intelligence (AI) tools for use in pathology services has occurred. This trend is often expected to continue and reshape the field of pathology in the coming years. The deployment of computational pathology and applications of AI tools can be considered as a paradigm shift that will change pathology services, making them more efficient and capable of meeting the needs of this era of precision medicine. Despite the success of AI models, the translational process from discovery to clinical applications has been slow. The gap between self-contained research and clinical environment may be too wide and has been largely neglected. In this review, we cover the current and prospective applications of AI in pathology. We examine its applications in diagnosis and prognosis, and we offer insights for considerations that could improve clinical applicability of these tools. Then, we discuss its potential to improve workflow efficiency, and its benefits in pathologist education. Finally, we review the factors that could influence adoption in clinical practices and the associated regulatory processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emad A Rakha
- Histopathology, University of Nottingham School of Medicine, Nottingham, UK
| | - Michael Toss
- Histopathology, University of Nottingham School of Medicine, Nottingham, UK
| | - Sho Shiino
- Histopathology, University of Nottingham School of Medicine, Nottingham, UK
| | - Paul Gamble
- Google Health, Google, Palo Alto, California, USA
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31
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Liscia DS, Bellis D, Biletta E, D'Andrea M, Croci GA, Dianzani U. Whole-Slide Imaging Allows Pathologists to Work Remotely in Regions with Severe Logistical Constraints Due to Covid-19 Pandemic. J Pathol Inform 2020; 11:20. [PMID: 33042599 PMCID: PMC7518211 DOI: 10.4103/jpi.jpi_32_20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2020] [Revised: 05/18/2020] [Accepted: 05/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: In this study, we report on our experience using digital pathology to overcome the severe limitations imposed on health care by the Covid-19 outbreak in Northern Italy. Social distancing had a major impact on public transportation, causing it to run with reduced timetables. This resulted in a major challenge for hospital commuters. To limit the presence in our hospital of no more than two pathologists at a time out of four, a web-based digital pathology system (DPS) was employed to work remotely. Subjects and Methods: We used a DPS in which a scanner, a laboratory information system, a storage device, and a web server were interfaced so that tissue slides could be viewed over the Internet by whole-slide imaging (WSI). After a brief internal verification test, the activity on the DPS was recorded, taking track of a set of performance and efficiency indicators. At the end of the study, 405 cases were signed out remotely. Results: Of 693 cases, 58.4% were signed out remotely by WSI, while 8.4% needed to be kept on hold to return to the original microscope slide. In three cases, at least one slide had to be rescanned. In eight cases, one slide was recut. Panel discussion by WSI was necessary in 34 cases, a condition in which all pathologists were asked for their opinion. A consultation with a more experienced colleague was necessary in 17 cases. Conclusions: We show that WSI easily allows pathologists to overcome the problems caused by the severe social distancing measures imposed by the Covid-19 pandemic. Our experience shows that soon there will not be alternatives to digital pathology, given that there is no assurance that other similar outbreaks will not occur.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel S Liscia
- Department of Surgery, Anatomic Pathology Unit, Nuovo Ospedale Degli Infermi - ASL BI, 13875 Ponderano (BI), Italy
| | - Donata Bellis
- Department of Surgery, Anatomic Pathology Unit, Nuovo Ospedale Degli Infermi - ASL BI, 13875 Ponderano (BI), Italy
| | - Elena Biletta
- Department of Surgery, Anatomic Pathology Unit, Nuovo Ospedale Degli Infermi - ASL BI, 13875 Ponderano (BI), Italy
| | - Mariangela D'Andrea
- Department of Surgery, Anatomic Pathology Unit, Nuovo Ospedale Degli Infermi - ASL BI, 13875 Ponderano (BI), Italy
| | - Giorgio A Croci
- Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, Division of Pathology, University of Milan, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda-Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, 20122 Milan, Italy
| | - Umberto Dianzani
- Department of Health Sciences, Piemonte Orientale University, I-28100, Novara, Italy
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32
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Stathonikos N, van Varsseveld NC, Vink A, van Dijk MR, Nguyen TQ, Leng WWJD, Lacle MM, Goldschmeding R, Vreuls CPH, van Diest PJ. Digital pathology in the time of corona. J Clin Pathol 2020; 73:706-712. [PMID: 32699117 PMCID: PMC7588598 DOI: 10.1136/jclinpath-2020-206845] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2020] [Accepted: 06/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
The 2020 COVID-19 crisis has had and will have many implications for healthcare, including pathology. Rising number of infections create staffing shortages and other hospital departments might require pathology employees to fill more urgent positions. Furthermore, lockdown measures and social distancing cause many people to work from home. During this crisis, it became clearer than ever what an asset digital diagnostics is to keep pathologists, residents, molecular biologists and pathology assistants engaged in the diagnostic process, allowing social distancing and a ‘need to be there’ on-the-premises policy, while working effectively from home. This paper provides an overview of our way of working during the 2020 COVID-19 crisis with emphasis on the virtues of digital pathology.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Aryan Vink
- Pathology, Universitair Medisch Centrum Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Marijke R van Dijk
- Pathology, Universitair Medisch Centrum Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Tri Q Nguyen
- Pathology, Universitair Medisch Centrum Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Wendy W J de Leng
- Pathology, Universitair Medisch Centrum Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Miangela M Lacle
- Pathology, Universitair Medisch Centrum Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Roel Goldschmeding
- Pathology, Universitair Medisch Centrum Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Celien P H Vreuls
- Pathology, Universitair Medisch Centrum Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Paul J van Diest
- Pathology, Universitair Medisch Centrum Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
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33
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“Teledermatopathology: A Review”. CURRENT DERMATOLOGY REPORTS 2020. [DOI: 10.1007/s13671-020-00299-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
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34
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Williams B, Hanby A, Millican-Slater R, Verghese E, Nijhawan A, Wilson I, Besusparis J, Clark D, Snead D, Rakha E, Treanor D. Digital pathology for primary diagnosis of screen-detected breast lesions - experimental data, validation and experience from four centres. Histopathology 2020; 76:968-975. [PMID: 31994224 DOI: 10.1111/his.14079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2019] [Revised: 01/14/2020] [Accepted: 01/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
AIM The rate of deployment of digital pathology (DP) systems for primary diagnosis in the UK is accelerating. The flexibility and resilience of digital versus standard glass slides could be of great benefit in the NHS breast screening programme (NHSBSP). This study aims to document the safety and benefits of DP for preoperative tissue diagnosis of screen-detected breast lesions. METHODS AND RESULTS Concordance data for glass and digital slides of the same cases from four sites were subjected to detailed concordance-discordance analysis. A literature review of DP in the primary diagnosis of breast lesions is presented, making this the most comprehensive synthesis of digital breast cancer histopathological diagnostic data to date. Detailed concordance analysis of experimental data from two histopathology departments reveals clinical concordance rates for breast biopsies of 96% (216 of 225) and 99.6% (249 of 250). Data from direct comparison validation studies in two histopathology departments, utilising the protocol recommended by the Royal College of Pathologists, found concordance rates for breast histology cases of 99.4% (180 of 181) and 99.0% (887 of 896). An intraobserver variation study for glass versus digital slides for difficult cases from the NHSBSP yielded a kappa statistic of 0.80, indicating excellent agreement. Discordances encountered in the studies most frequently concerned discrepancies in grading attributable to mitotic count-scoring and identification of weddelite. CONCLUSIONS The experience of four histopathology laboratories and our review of pre-existing literature suggests that DP is safe for the primary diagnosis of NHSBSP breast histology specimens, and does not increase the risk of misclassification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bethany Williams
- Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, Leeds, UK.,University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | - Andrew Hanby
- Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, Leeds, UK.,University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | | | - Eldo Verghese
- Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, Leeds, UK.,University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | | | | | | | - David Clark
- United Lincolnshire Hospitals NHS Trust, Grantham, UK
| | - David Snead
- University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire, Coventry, UK.,University of Warwick, Warwick, UK
| | - Emad Rakha
- Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust, Nottingham, UK.,University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Darren Treanor
- Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, Leeds, UK.,University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
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35
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Williams BJ, Ismail A, Chakrabarty A, Treanor D. Clinical digital neuropathology: experience and observations from a departmental digital pathology training programme, validation and deployment. J Clin Pathol 2020; 74:456-461. [PMID: 32139375 DOI: 10.1136/jclinpath-2019-206343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2020] [Revised: 02/03/2020] [Accepted: 02/04/2020] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
AIM To train and individually validate the neuropathologists in digital primary diagnosis and frozen section reporting using a novel protocol endorsed by the Royal College of Pathologists. The protocol allows early exposure to live digital reporting in a risk mitigated environment. METHODS Two specialist neuropathologists completed training in the use of a digital microscopy system for primary neuropathological diagnosis and frozen section assessment. Participants were exposed to training sets of 20 histology cases and 10 frozen sections designed to help them identify their personal digital diagnostic pitfalls. Following this, the pathologists viewed 340 live, complete neuropathology cases. All primary diagnoses were made on digital slides with immediate glass slide reconciliation before final case sign-out. RESULTS There was 100% clinical concordance between the digital slide and glass slide assessment of frozen section cases for each pathologist, and these assessments corresponded with the ground truth diagnoses obtained from examination of definitive histology. For primary diagnosis, there was complete clinical concordance between digital slide and glass slide diagnosis in 98.1% of cases. The majority of discordances were related to grading differences attributable to mitotic count differences. CONCLUSION Neuropathologists can develop the ability to make primary digital diagnosis competently and confidently following a course of individual training and validation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bethany Jill Williams
- Histopathology, Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, Leeds, UK .,Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | - Azzam Ismail
- Histopathology, Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, Leeds, UK.,Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | - Arundhati Chakrabarty
- Histopathology, Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, Leeds, UK.,Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | - Darren Treanor
- Histopathology, Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, Leeds, UK.,Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
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36
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Ibrahim A, Gamble P, Jaroensri R, Abdelsamea MM, Mermel CH, Chen PHC, Rakha EA. Artificial intelligence in digital breast pathology: Techniques and applications. Breast 2019; 49:267-273. [PMID: 31935669 PMCID: PMC7375550 DOI: 10.1016/j.breast.2019.12.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2019] [Accepted: 12/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer is the most common cancer and second leading cause of cancer-related death worldwide. The mainstay of breast cancer workup is histopathological diagnosis - which guides therapy and prognosis. However, emerging knowledge about the complex nature of cancer and the availability of tailored therapies have exposed opportunities for improvements in diagnostic precision. In parallel, advances in artificial intelligence (AI) along with the growing digitization of pathology slides for the primary diagnosis are a promising approach to meet the demand for more accurate detection, classification and prediction of behaviour of breast tumours. In this article, we cover the current and prospective uses of AI in digital pathology for breast cancer, review the basics of digital pathology and AI, and outline outstanding challenges in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asmaa Ibrahim
- Department of Histopathology, Division of Cancer and Stem Cells, School of Medicine, The University of Nottingham and Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust, Nottingham City Hospital, Nottingham, NG5 1PB, UK
| | | | | | - Mohammed M Abdelsamea
- School of Computing and Digital Technology, Birmingham City University, Birmingham, UK
| | | | | | - Emad A Rakha
- Department of Histopathology, Division of Cancer and Stem Cells, School of Medicine, The University of Nottingham and Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust, Nottingham City Hospital, Nottingham, NG5 1PB, UK.
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37
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Williams BJ, Treanor D. Practical guide to training and validation for primary diagnosis with digital pathology. J Clin Pathol 2019; 73:418-422. [PMID: 31784420 DOI: 10.1136/jclinpath-2019-206319] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2019] [Revised: 11/12/2019] [Accepted: 11/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Numerous clinical pathology departments are deploying or planning to deploy digital pathology systems for all or part of their diagnostic output. Digital pathology is an evolving technology, and it is important that departments uphold or improve on current standards. Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust has been scanning 100% of histology slides since September 2018. In this practical paper, we will share our approach to training and validation, which has been incorporated into the Royal College of Pathologists' guidance for digital pathology implementation. We will offer an overview of the Royal College endorsed training and validation protocol and the evidence base on which it is based. We will provide practical advice on implementation of the protocol and highlight areas of digital reporting that can prove difficult for the novice digital pathologist. In addition, we will share a detailed topographical list of types of diagnostic tasks and features which should form the basis of digital slide training sets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bethany Jill Williams
- Department of Histopathology, Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, Leeds, UK .,Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | - Darren Treanor
- Department of Histopathology, Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, Leeds, UK.,Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
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38
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Stathonikos N, Nguyen TQ, Spoto CP, Verdaasdonk MAM, van Diest PJ. Being fully digital: perspective of a Dutch academic pathology laboratory. Histopathology 2019; 75:621-635. [PMID: 31301690 PMCID: PMC6856836 DOI: 10.1111/his.13953] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
The introduction of fast and robust whole slide scanners has facilitated the implementation of ‘digital pathology’ with various uses, the final challenge being full digital diagnostics. In this article, we describe the implementation process of a fully digital workflow for primary diagnostics in 2015 at the University Medical Centre in Utrecht, The Netherlands, as one of the first laboratories going fully digital with a future‐proof complete digital archive. Furthermore, we evaluated the experience of the first 2 years of working with the system by pathologists and residents. The system was successfully implemented in 6 months, including a European tender procedure. Most pathologists and residents had high confidence in working fully digitally, the expertise areas lagging behind being paediatrics, haematopathology, and neuropathology. Reported limitations concerned recognition of microorganisms and mitoses. Neither the age of respondents nor the number of years of pathology experience was correlated with the confidence level regarding digital diagnostics. The ergonomics of digital diagnostics were better than those of traditional microscopy. In this article, we describe our experiences in implementing our fully digital primary diagnostics workflow, describing in depth the implementation steps undertaken, the interlocking components that are required for a fully functional digital pathology system (laboratory management, hospital information systems, data storage, and whole slide scanners), and the changes required in workflow and slide production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nikolas Stathonikos
- Department of Pathology, University Medical Centre Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Tri Q Nguyen
- Department of Pathology, University Medical Centre Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Clothaire P Spoto
- Department of Pathology, University Medical Centre Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | | | - Paul J van Diest
- Department of Pathology, University Medical Centre Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
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39
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Girolami I, Parwani A, Barresi V, Marletta S, Ammendola S, Stefanizzi L, Novelli L, Capitanio A, Brunelli M, Pantanowitz L, Eccher A. The Landscape of Digital Pathology in Transplantation: From the Beginning to the Virtual E-Slide. J Pathol Inform 2019; 10:21. [PMID: 31367473 PMCID: PMC6639852 DOI: 10.4103/jpi.jpi_27_19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2019] [Accepted: 06/06/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Digital pathology has progressed over the last two decades, with many clinical and nonclinical applications. Transplantation pathology is a highly specialized field in which the majority of practicing pathologists do not have sufficient expertise to handle critical needs. In this context, digital pathology has proven to be useful as it allows for timely access to expert second-opinion teleconsultation. The aim of this study was to review the experience of the application of digital pathology to the field of transplantation. Methods Papers on this topic were retrieved using PubMed as a search engine. Inclusion criteria were the presence of transplantation setting and the use of any type of digital image with or without the use of image analysis tools; the search was restricted to English language papers published in the 25 years until December 31, 2018. Results Literature regarding digital transplant pathology is mostly about the digital interpretation of posttransplant biopsies (75 vs. 19), with 15/75 (20%) articles focusing on agreement/reproducibility. Several papers concentrated on the correlation between biopsy features assessed by digital image analysis (DIA) and clinical outcome (45/75, 60%). Whole-slide imaging (WSI) only appeared in recent publications, starting from 2011 (13/75, 17.3%). Papers dealing with preimplantation biopsy are less numerous, the majority (13/19, 68.4%) of which focus on diagnostic agreement between digital microscopy and light microscopy (LM), with WSI technology being used in only a small quota of papers (4/19, 21.1%). Conclusions Overall, published studies show good concordance between digital microscopy and LM modalities for diagnosis. DIA has the potential to increase diagnostic reproducibility and facilitate the identification and quantification of histological parameters. Thus, with advancing technology such as faster scanning times, better image resolution, and novel image algorithms, it is likely that WSI will eventually replace LM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilaria Girolami
- Department of Diagnostics and Public Health, University and Hospital Trust of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Anil Parwani
- Department of Pathology, Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Valeria Barresi
- Department of Diagnostics and Public Health, University and Hospital Trust of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Stefano Marletta
- Department of Diagnostics and Public Health, University and Hospital Trust of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Serena Ammendola
- Department of Diagnostics and Public Health, University and Hospital Trust of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Lavinia Stefanizzi
- Department of Diagnostics and Public Health, University and Hospital Trust of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Luca Novelli
- Department of Translational Medicine and Surgery, Institute of Histopathology and Molecular Diagnosis, Careggi University Hospital, Florence, Italy
| | - Arrigo Capitanio
- Department of Clinical Pathology, and Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Matteo Brunelli
- Department of Diagnostics and Public Health, University and Hospital Trust of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Liron Pantanowitz
- Department of Pathology, UPMC Shadyside Hospital, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Albino Eccher
- Department of Diagnostics and Public Health, University and Hospital Trust of Verona, Verona, Italy
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40
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The performance of digital microscopy for primary diagnosis in human pathology: a systematic review. Virchows Arch 2019; 474:269-287. [DOI: 10.1007/s00428-018-02519-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2018] [Revised: 12/25/2018] [Accepted: 12/28/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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41
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Fraggetta F, Yagi Y, Garcia-Rojo M, Evans AJ, Tuthill JM, Baidoshvili A, Hartman DJ, Fukuoka J, Pantanowitz L. The Importance of eSlide Macro Images for Primary Diagnosis with Whole Slide Imaging. J Pathol Inform 2018; 9:46. [PMID: 30662792 PMCID: PMC6319037 DOI: 10.4103/jpi.jpi_70_18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2018] [Accepted: 10/31/2018] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: A whole slide image (WSI) is typically comprised of a macro image (low-power snapshot of the entire glass slide) and stacked tiles in a pyramid structure (with the lowest resolution thumbnail at the top). The macro image shows the label and all pieces of tissue on the slide. Many whole slide scanner vendors do not readily show the macro overview to pathologists. We demonstrate that failure to do so may result in a serious misdiagnosis. Materials and Methods: Various examples of errors were accumulated that occurred during the digitization of glass slides where the virtual slide differed from the macro image of the original glass slide. Such examples were retrieved from pathology laboratories using different types of scanners in the USA, Canada, Europe, and Asia. Results: The reasons for image errors were categorized into technical problems (e.g., automatic tissue finder failure, image mismatches, and poor scan coverage) and human operator mistakes (e.g., improper manual region of interest selection). These errors were all detected because they were highlighted in the macro image. Conclusion: Our experience indicates that WSI can be subject to inadvertent errors related to glitches in scanning slides, corrupt images, or mistakes made by humans when scanning slides. Displaying the macro image that accompanies WSIs is critical from a quality control perspective in digital pathology practice as this can help detect these serious image-related problems and avoid compromised diagnoses.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Yukako Yagi
- Department of Pathology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, USA
| | - Marcial Garcia-Rojo
- Department of Pathology, Hospital Universitario Puerta del Mar, Cádiz, Spain
| | - Andrew J Evans
- Department of Pathology, University Health Network, Toronto, Canada
| | - J Mark Tuthill
- Department of Pathology, Henry Ford Health System, Detroit, Michigan, USA
| | | | - Douglas J Hartman
- Department of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Junya Fukuoka
- Department of Pathology, Nagasaki University Hospital, Nagasaki, Japan
| | - Liron Pantanowitz
- Department of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
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42
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Van Es SL. Digital pathology: semper ad meliora. Pathology 2018; 51:1-10. [PMID: 30522785 DOI: 10.1016/j.pathol.2018.10.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2018] [Revised: 10/03/2018] [Accepted: 10/04/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
This review is an evidence-based summary of digital pathology: past, present and future. It discusses digital surgical pathology and the cytopathology digitisation challenge as well as the performance of digital histopathology and cytopathology as a diagnostic tool, particularly in contrast to user perceptions. Time and cost efficiency of digital pathology, learning curves, education and quality assurance, with the importance of validation of systems, is emphasised. The review concludes with a discussion of digital pathology as a source of 'big data' and where this might lead pathologists in the digital pathology future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simone L Van Es
- Department of Pathology, School of Medical Sciences, UNSW, Sydney, NSW, Australia.
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43
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Pantanowitz L, Sharma A, Carter AB, Kurc T, Sussman A, Saltz J. Twenty Years of Digital Pathology: An Overview of the Road Travelled, What is on the Horizon, and the Emergence of Vendor-Neutral Archives. J Pathol Inform 2018; 9:40. [PMID: 30607307 PMCID: PMC6289005 DOI: 10.4103/jpi.jpi_69_18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 105] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2018] [Accepted: 10/28/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Almost 20 years have passed since the commercial introduction of whole-slide imaging (WSI) scanners. During this time, the creation of various WSI devices with the ability to digitize an entire glass slide has transformed the field of pathology. Parallel advances in computational technology and storage have permitted rapid processing of large-scale WSI datasets. This article provides an overview of important past and present efforts related to WSI. An account of how the virtual microscope evolved from the need to visualize and manage satellite data for earth science applications is provided. The article also discusses important milestones beginning from the first WSI scanner designed by Bacus to the Food and Drug Administration approval of the first digital pathology system for primary diagnosis in surgical pathology. As pathology laboratories commit to going fully digitalize, the need has emerged to include WSIs into an enterprise-level vendor-neutral archive (VNA). The different types of VNAs available are reviewed as well as how best to implement them and how pathology can benefit from participating in this effort. Differences between traditional image algorithms that extract pixel-, object-, and semantic-level features versus deep learning methods are highlighted. The need for large-scale data management, analysis, and visualization in computational pathology is also addressed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liron Pantanowitz
- Department of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Ashish Sharma
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, Emory University, GA, USA
| | - Alexis B. Carter
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Tahsin Kurc
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, USA
| | - Alan Sussman
- Department of Computer Science, University of Maryland, College Park, MD, USA
| | - Joel Saltz
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, USA
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44
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Baidoshvili A, Stathonikos N, Freling G, Bart J, 't Hart N, van der Laak J, Doff J, van der Vegt B, Kluin PM, van Diest PJ. Validation of a whole-slide image-based teleconsultation network. Histopathology 2018; 73:777-783. [PMID: 29893996 DOI: 10.1111/his.13673] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2018] [Accepted: 06/11/2018] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
AIMS Most validation studies on digital pathology diagnostics have been performed in single institutes. Because rapid consultation on cases with extramural experts is one of the most important uses for digital pathology laboratory networks, the aim of this study was to validate a whole-slide image-based teleconsultation network between three independent laboratories. METHODS AND RESULTS Each laboratory contributed 30 biopsies and/or excisions, totalling 90 specimens (776 slides) of varying difficulty and covering a wide variety of organs and subspecialties. All slides were scanned centrally at ×40 scanning magnification and uploaded, and subsequently assessed digitally by 16 pathologists using the same image management system and viewer. Each laboratory was excluded from digital assessment of their own cases. Concordance rates between the two diagnostic modalities (light microscopic versus digital) were compared. Loading speed of the images, zooming latency and focus quality were scored. Leaving out eight minor discrepancies without any clinical significance, the concordance rate between remote digital and original microscopic diagnoses was 97.8%. The two cases with a major discordance (for which the light microscopic diagnoses were deemed to be the better ones) resulted from a different interpretation of diagnostic criteria in one case and an image quality issue in the other case. Average scores for loading speed of the images, zooming latency and focus quality were 2.37 (on a scale up to 3), 2.39 (scale up to 3) and 3.06 (scale up to 4), respectively. CONCLUSIONS This validation study demonstrates the suitability of a teleconsultation network for remote digital consultation using whole-slide images. Such networks may contribute to faster revision and consultation in pathology while maintaining diagnostic standards.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexi Baidoshvili
- Laboratory of Pathology East Netherlands, (LabPON), Hengelo, the Netherlands
| | | | - Gerard Freling
- Laboratory of Pathology East Netherlands, (LabPON), Hengelo, the Netherlands
| | - Jos Bart
- Isala Hospital, Zwolle, the Netherlands
| | - Nils 't Hart
- Isala Hospital, Zwolle, the Netherlands.,University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | | | - Jan Doff
- University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Bert van der Vegt
- University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Philip M Kluin
- University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
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45
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Bauer TW. Commentary: Whole-slide Images - Good Enough for Primary Diagnosis? J Pathol Inform 2018. [PMID: 29531848 PMCID: PMC5841012 DOI: 10.4103/jpi.jpi_72_17] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Thomas W Bauer
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Hospital for Special Surgery, NY, USA
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46
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Williams BJ, Lee J, Oien KA, Treanor D. Digital pathology access and usage in the UK: results from a national survey on behalf of the National Cancer Research Institute's CM-Path initiative. J Clin Pathol 2018; 71:463-466. [PMID: 29317516 PMCID: PMC5916098 DOI: 10.1136/jclinpath-2017-204808] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2017] [Revised: 11/13/2017] [Accepted: 11/30/2017] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Aim To canvass the UK pathology community to ascertain current levels of digital pathology usage in clinical and academic histopathology departments, and prevalent attitudes to digital pathology. Methods A 15-item survey was circulated to National Health Service and academic pathology departments across the UK using the SurveyMonkey online survey tool. Responses were sought at a departmental or institutional level. Where possible, departmental heads were approached and asked to complete the survey, or forward it to the most relevant individual in their department. Data were collected over a 6-month period from February to July 2017. Results 41 institutes from across the UK responded to the survey. 60% (23/39) of institutions had access to a digital pathology scanner, and 60% (24/40) had access to a digital pathology workstation. The most popular applications of digital pathology in current use were undergraduate and postgraduate teaching, research and quality assurance. Investigating the deployment of digital pathology in their department was identified as a high or highest priority by 58.5% of institutions, with improvements in efficiency, turnaround times, reporting times and collaboration in their institution anticipated by the respondents. Access to funding for initial hardware, software and staff outlay, pathologist training and guidance from the Royal College of Pathologists were identified as factors that could enable respondent institutions to increase their digital pathology usage. Conclusion Interest in digital pathology adoption in the UK is high, with usage likely to increase in the coming years. In light of this, pathologists are seeking more guidance on safe usage.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jessica Lee
- National Cancer Research Institute, London, UK
| | - Karin A Oien
- Institute of Cancer Sciences, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Darren Treanor
- Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
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47
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Williams BJ, Hanby A, Millican-Slater R, Nijhawan A, Verghese E, Treanor D. Digital pathology for the primary diagnosis of breast histopathological specimens: an innovative validation and concordance study on digital pathology validation and training. Histopathology 2017; 72:662-671. [PMID: 28940580 DOI: 10.1111/his.13403] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2017] [Accepted: 09/19/2017] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
AIM To train and individually validate a group of breast pathologists in specialty-specific digital primary diagnosis by using a novel protocol endorsed by the Royal College of Pathologists' new guideline for digital pathology. The protocol allows early exposure to live digital reporting, in a risk-mitigated environment, and focuses on patient safety and professional development. METHODS AND RESULTS Three specialty breast pathologists completed training in the use of a digital microscopy system, and were exposed to a training set of 20 challenging cases, designed to help them identify personal digital diagnostic pitfalls. Following this, the three pathologists viewed a total of 694 live, entire breast cases. All primary diagnoses were made on digital slides, with immediate glass slide review and reconciliation before final case sign-out. There was complete clinical concordance between the glass and digital impression of the case in 98.8% of cases. Only 1.2% of cases had a clinically significant difference in diagnosis/prognosis on glass and digital slide reads. All pathologists elected to continue using the digital microscope as the standard for breast histopathology specimens, with deferral to glass for a limited number of clinical/histological scenarios as a safety net. CONCLUSION Individual training and validation for digital primary diagnosis allows pathologists to develop competence and confidence in their digital diagnostic skills, and aids safe and responsible transition from the light microscope to the digital microscope.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Andrew Hanby
- Department of Histopathology, Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, Leeds, UK.,University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | | | - Anju Nijhawan
- Department of Histopathology, Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, Leeds, UK
| | - Eldo Verghese
- Department of Histopathology, Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, Leeds, UK.,University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | - Darren Treanor
- Department of Histopathology, Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, Leeds, UK.,University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
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Sahin D, Hacisalihoglu UP, Kirimlioglu SH. Telecytology: Is it possible with smartphone images? Diagn Cytopathol 2017; 46:40-46. [PMID: 29115040 DOI: 10.1002/dc.23851] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2017] [Revised: 10/06/2017] [Accepted: 10/06/2017] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION This study aimed to discuss smartphone usage in telecytology and determine intraobserver concordance between microscopic cytopathological diagnoses and diagnoses derived via static smartphone images. METHODS The study was conducted with 172 cytologic material. A pathologist captured static images of the cytology slides from the ocular lens of a microscope using a smartphone. The images were transferred via WhatsApp® to a cytopathologist working in another center who made all the microscopic cytopathological diagnoses 5-27 months ago. The cytopathologist diagnosed images on a smartphone without knowledge of their previous microscopic diagnoses. The Kappa agreement between microscopic cytopathological diagnoses and smartphone image diagnoses was determined. RESULTS The average image capturing, transfer, and remote cytopathological diagnostic time for one case was 6.20 minutes. The percentage of cases whose microscopic and smartphone image diagnoses were concordant was 84.30%, and the percentage of those whose diagnoses were discordant was 15.69%. The highest Kappa agreement was observed in endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine needle aspiration (1.000), and the lowest agreement was observed in urine cytology (0.665). Patient management changed with smart phone image diagnoses at 11.04%. CONCLUSIONS This study showed that easy, fast, and high-quality image capturing and transfer is possible from cytology slides using smartphones. The intraobserver Kappa agreement between the microscopic cytopathological diagnoses and remote smartphone image diagnoses was high. It was found that remote diagnosis due to difficulties in telecytology might change patient management. The developments in the smartphone camera technology and transfer software make them efficient telepathology and telecytology tools.
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Affiliation(s)
- Davut Sahin
- Department of Pathology, Acibadem Health Group, Istanbul, Turkey
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Yu H, Gao F, Jiang L, Ma S. Development of a Whole Slide Imaging System on Smartphones and Evaluation With Frozen Section Samples. JMIR Mhealth Uhealth 2017; 5:e132. [PMID: 28916508 PMCID: PMC5622289 DOI: 10.2196/mhealth.8242] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2017] [Revised: 07/28/2017] [Accepted: 08/14/2017] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The aim was to develop scalable Whole Slide Imaging (sWSI), a WSI system based on mainstream smartphones coupled with regular optical microscopes. This ultra-low-cost solution should offer diagnostic-ready imaging quality on par with standalone scanners, supporting both oil and dry objective lenses of different magnifications, and reasonably high throughput. These performance metrics should be evaluated by expert pathologists and match those of high-end scanners. OBJECTIVE The aim was to develop scalable Whole Slide Imaging (sWSI), a whole slide imaging system based on smartphones coupled with optical microscopes. This ultra-low-cost solution should offer diagnostic-ready imaging quality on par with standalone scanners, supporting both oil and dry object lens of different magnification. All performance metrics should be evaluated by expert pathologists and match those of high-end scanners. METHODS In the sWSI design, the digitization process is split asynchronously between light-weight clients on smartphones and powerful cloud servers. The client apps automatically capture FoVs at up to 12-megapixel resolution and process them in real-time to track the operation of users, then give instant feedback of guidance. The servers first restitch each pair of FoVs, then automatically correct the unknown nonlinear distortion introduced by the lens of the smartphone on the fly, based on pair-wise stitching, before finally combining all FoVs into one gigapixel VS for each scan. These VSs can be viewed using Internet browsers anywhere. In the evaluation experiment, 100 frozen section slides from patients randomly selected among in-patients of the participating hospital were scanned by both a high-end Leica scanner and sWSI. All VSs were examined by senior pathologists whose diagnoses were compared against those made using optical microscopy as ground truth to evaluate the image quality. RESULTS The sWSI system is developed for both Android and iPhone smartphones and is currently being offered to the public. The image quality is reliable and throughput is approximately 1 FoV per second, yielding a 15-by-15 mm slide under 20X object lens in approximately 30-35 minutes, with little training required for the operator. The expected cost for setup is approximately US $100 and scanning each slide costs between US $1 and $10, making sWSI highly cost-effective for infrequent or low-throughput usage. In the clinical evaluation of sample-wise diagnostic reliability, average accuracy scores achieved by sWSI-scan-based diagnoses were as follows: 0.78 for breast, 0.88 for uterine corpus, 0.68 for thyroid, and 0.50 for lung samples. The respective low-sensitivity rates were 0.05, 0.05, 0.13, and 0.25 while the respective low-specificity rates were 0.18, 0.08, 0.20, and 0.25. The participating pathologists agreed that the overall quality of sWSI was generally on par with that produced by high-end scanners, and did not affect diagnosis in most cases. Pathologists confirmed that sWSI is reliable enough for standard diagnoses of most tissue categories, while it can be used for quick screening of difficult cases. CONCLUSIONS As an ultra-low-cost alternative to whole slide scanners, diagnosis-ready VS quality and robustness for commercial usage is achieved in the sWSI solution. Operated on main-stream smartphones installed on normal optical microscopes, sWSI readily offers affordable and reliable WSI to resource-limited or infrequent clinical users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong Yu
- Department of Pathology Center, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine (originally named "Shanghai First People's Hospital"), Shanghai, China
| | - Feng Gao
- Department of Pathology Center, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine (originally named "Shanghai First People's Hospital"), Shanghai, China
| | - Liren Jiang
- Department of Pathology Center, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine (originally named "Shanghai First People's Hospital"), Shanghai, China
| | - Shuoxin Ma
- TerryDr Info Technology Co., Ltd, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
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