UC Davis

BackgroundAlthough digital pathology (DP) technology has existed for over 20 years, recent advances now allow DP systems to be used for primary diagnosis and as automated image analysis tools, where they play valuable roles. Adoption has been slow, however, with pathology laboratories slowly transitioning to DP systems. Due to the advantages its use brings, it is important that UC Davis Health (UCDH) strengthen its current DP implementation.

ObjectivesThe purpose of the thesis to identify and discuss informatics issues presented within other organizations DP systems. Furthermore, discuss with how those identified informatics barriers were addressed with UCDH’s DP system implementation. Concluding with identifying future enhancements to strengthen UCDH’s DP system.

MethodsMixed methods were used to accomplish the objectives, beginning with an article search to identify and discuss informatics issues presented within other organization’s WSI validation studies. Inclusion criteria was designed to identify studies conducted within contexts similar to that of UCDH. Studies were selected with cases involving either histopathology or surgical pathology, and digital images were acquired and viewed on a DP system of the Leica BioSystems Aperio brand. We applied the knowledge learned from the literature by conducting informal interviews and first-person observations to discuss UCDH’s implementation of its digital pathology system, and discuss how informatics issues identified in literature were mitigated.

ResultsThe literature review identified six informatics and technical issues with other organization’s DP systems. UCDH focused on four of six key components mitigate barriers to its DP implementation. (1) Reducing image quality issues due to technology by procuring advanced computer hardware and displays (2) Reducing image quality issues due to slide preparation by developing histology lab quality assurance protocols, (3) reducing dissatisfaction with WSI viewer by updating the software, and (4) offering user training sessions prior to DP implementation, so users can gain prior DP experience.