New Technology Now Allowing Pathologists To Diagnose Cancer Easier
PITTSBURGH (KDKA)- Traditionally, doctors called pathologists would look at biopsy tissue under the microscope for signs of cancer. But sometimes, especially in tough cases, one pathologist's diagnosis isn't enough.
"There are patients who sometimes want a second opinion," said Dr. Liron Pantanowitz of UPMC Shadyside Pathology.
To get several opinions, glass microscope slides would have to be shared in some way. If you wanted to consult a pathologist across the country or in a different country, you would have to mail the slides, with risk of breakage or loss.
In this digitized world, pathologists now share slides in an instant electronically.
It takes about two-to-five minutes to scan a slide. Then, the image can be sent across the building, across the country or across the world.
"Usually, pathologists will get together and come up with a consensus of what's the best diagnosis for this patient, and what's the most accurate diagnosis to help that patient," Pantanowitz noted.
In addition to sharing, they can use digital tools to enhance the analysis. Pantanowitz believes that a more-accurate diagnosis can be found.
"Humans, kind of have to estimate according to guidelines, whereas the machine basically with algorhythms, will reproducibly provide a more precise diagnosis."
Glass slides may soon be relegated to the museum, as more and more pathologists do it digitally.
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