Digital Pathology – Implementation Challenges in Low-Resource Countries. (2012)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Fontelo, Paul; Faustorilla, John; Gavino, Alex; Marcelo, Alvin
• Is Part Of: Analytical cellular pathology. Volume 35:Number 1(2012)
• Page Start: 31
• Page End: 36
• Publication Date: 2012
• Subjects: Digital pathology -- virtual slide -- virtual microscope -- whole slide imaging -- medical education -- low-resource countries; Pathology, Cellular -- Periodicals; Cytology -- Periodicals; Oncology -- Periodicals; Cancer -- Cytopathology -- Periodicals; Cancer -- Cytopathology; Cytology; Oncology; Pathology, Cellular; Cell Transformation, Neoplastic; Cells -- pathology; Cytological Techniques; Genetic Techniques; Periodicals; 571.936
• DOI: 10.3233/ACP-2011-0024
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2210-7177

Abstract

Abstract : Background : Medical education in pathology and histology in low-resource countries face many obstacles because of equipment cost and telecommunication deficiencies. Digital Pathology may provide solutions. We report student experience to virtual slides on a local network and a remote image server. Methods : Using an iPad tablet device, fifty 3rd and 4th year medical students viewed digital pathology slides from a Web server at the National Library of Medicine and a mirror server on the local network. Results : The quality of images from both servers was found to be satisfactory, but the local server was deemed faster and preferred by the participants in this study ( p < 0.005). Conclusions : Virtual slides on a local network server may provide solutions to equipment and technical obstacles and could enhance student learning in developing countries.