Diagnostic digital cytopathology: Are we ready yet?

Area of Science:

• Pathology
• Digital Health
• Medical Diagnostics

Background:

• Literature on diagnostic accuracy using whole slide imaging in cytology is limited.
• Assessing the readiness of digital cytology adoption requires understanding diagnostic concordance between glass and digital slides.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate diagnostic concordance between glass and digital slides.
• To assess the impact of diagnostician profiles on digital cytology adoption readiness.

Main Methods:

• 22 de-identified gynecological and non-gynecological cases were used.
• Glass slides were digitalized and diagnosed by cytopathologists (with/without digital experience), cytotechnologists, and pathology residents.
• Diagnostic accuracy and time were compared between glass and digital slide readings.

Main Results:

• Overall correct diagnosis was 93% for glass vs. 86% for digital slides.
• Cytopathologists without digital experience showed the highest accuracy with digital slides.
• Cytotechnologists had the fastest diagnosis time for digital slides, but accuracy varied.

Conclusions:

• Good overall diagnostic agreement exists between digital whole-slide images and glass slides.
• Glass slide diagnosis remains more accurate and faster.
• Strong diagnostic ability, irrespective of digital experience, is key for successful digital cytology adoption.