Introduction
In the evolving landscape of clinical pathology, digital transformation is no longer a distant future but a present reality. The recent recommendations from the Swiss Digital Pathology Consortium (SDiPath) provide a comprehensive guide for integrating digital pathology (DP) into clinical workflows. This blog aims to help practitioners improve their skills by implementing these recommendations and encouraging further research.
The Power of Digital Pathology
Digital Pathology (DP) offers numerous advantages over traditional methods, such as:
- Streamlined workflows and improved efficiency
- Enhanced collaboration among pathologists
- Reduced costs associated with slide storage and management
- Potential for computational analysis and predictive diagnostics
These benefits make DP an attractive option for clinical settings, but its implementation requires careful planning and adherence to best practices.
Key Recommendations from the Swiss Digital Pathology Consortium
The SDiPath recommendations cover four major areas: scanners, integration, digital workflows, and image analysis/artificial intelligence (IA/AI). Here are some highlights:
1. Scanners and Validation
- Define the scope of the digital pathology workflow, including different types of workflows (e.g., diagnostic biopsy, special stain, image analysis).
- Create a well-documented standard operating procedure (SOP) that describes the entire workflow.
- Evaluate and validate scanners to ensure they meet the intended purpose, including capacity, slide compatibility, and CE-IVD certification for diagnostic purposes.
2. Integration into Pathology Laboratory Information Systems
- Integrate the scan workflow into the Pathology Laboratory Information System (Patho-LIS), image management system (IMS), and an image archive.
- Ensure compliance with research regulations for non-routine diagnostic slides.
- Establish interfaces between WSI scanners and Patho-LIS, as well as between Patho-LIS and IMS.
3. Digital Workflow Compliance
- Train technicians and pathologists specifically for digital pathology requirements.
- Document all workflow steps in the quality management system’s SOP.
- Ensure consistent barcoding and readable information on vials, FFPE blocks, slides, and reports.
4. Image Analysis and Artificial Intelligence
- Use officially certified systems (e.g., IVD-CE certified, FDA-approved) or laboratory-developed systems that meet validation and quality control requirements.
- Internally validate IA/AI solutions, even if they are officially certified systems.
- Document metadata associated with WSI creation and ensure quality control measures are in place.
Encouraging Further Research
While the SDiPath recommendations provide a robust framework for implementing DP, the field is rapidly evolving. Practitioners are encouraged to stay updated with the latest research and continuously seek opportunities for improvement. Further research can help address current limitations and explore new applications of DP and IA/AI in clinical settings.
Conclusion
Implementing the Swiss Digital Pathology recommendations can significantly enhance clinical workflows and patient outcomes. By adhering to these guidelines and engaging in continuous research, practitioners can harness the full potential of digital pathology. To read the original research paper, please follow this link: Swiss digital pathology recommendations: results from a Delphi process conducted by the Swiss Digital Pathology Consortium of the Swiss Society of Pathology.
