Development and experience with an integrated system for transplantation telepathology

Rapid and accurate interpretation of allograft biopsies influences the outcome after organ transplantation. Expert histopathologic interpretation can also determine whether a donor organ should be used for transplantation or disposed. These and similar considerations in the field of Transplantation Pathology prompted us to develop a static image, store-and-forward telepathology system capable of rendering accurate, robust, and confidential communication by using readily available equipment and bandwidth capabilities for interactive real-time second opinion consultation. Between July 1999 and October 2000, 102 cases were transmitted, including 78 for second opinion and 1 for primary diagnosis with 6 (5 real-time) frozen sections. Full agreement with the original diagnosis was obtained in 67 of 78 (86%) cases; in 11 (14%) cases, teleconsultation resulted in 8 minor and 3 clinically significant differences of opinion. This led to a change in therapy in 1 case and further evaluation in 2 other cases. We conclude that static image, store-and-forward telepathology can enhance the practice of transplantation pathology, but a multidisciplinary team for ongiong support and development is required. This technology has the potential to promote case sharing, conduct continuing education, build consensus, and standardize readings of biopsies in multicenter trials in which histopathologic findings represent important outcome measures.