Opening New Vistas

Digital pathology breaks down geographical barriers and brings together experts via the virtual world

- Dr Kirti Chadha

Until the advent of digital pathology in India, histological slides and photographs were the primary tools to share microscopic images with others. Which brings us to the question of what exactly is digital pathology and does India need it? From simply remotely viewing patient slides, to consulting specialists real time within India and other parts of the world – the applications of digital pathology are endless.

Digital pathology eliminates some of the issues associated with sharing slides such as the degradation of samples and inability to share them. In addition to preserving quality, specimen images can be transferred to colleagues with ease. It also plays a significant role in diagnostics as hospitals and laboratories can share images anywhere in the world, thereby significantly decreasing the time it takes to diagnose and treat a patient. In addition, using networking tools, multiple pathologists can assure that teams are discussing the same aspect of the sample. Digital pathology breaks down geographical barriers and brings together experts via the virtual world and eliminates the need for expensive logistics to bridge that distance. In rural areas especially, this has opened new window as patients can now access experts sitting anywhere in the world.