Impact of mobile devices on cancer diagnosis in cytology

Digital pathology has widened pathologists' opportunities to examine both surgical and cytological samples. Recently, portable mobile devices like tablets and smartphones have been tested for application with digital technologies including static, dynamic, and more recently whole slide imaging. This study aimed to review the published literature on the impact of mobile devices on cancer diagnoses in cytology. This analysis focused on their diagnostic potential, technical details, critical issues and pitfalls, and economical aspects.

A systematic search was carried out in the electronic databases Embase and PubMed. Studies dealing with the application of mobile devices for diagnosing cancer on cytological specimens were included. The quality of studies was assessed with the QUADAS-2 tool. The main themes addressed were the comparison of manual examination with light microscopy and the use of mobile tools for primary diagnosis. The technical features of different models of smartphones and tablets, software, and adapters were also studied in terms of feasibility and costs-analysis.

Of 2458 retrieved articles, 18 were included. Concordance with light microscopy was good and diagnostic performance comparable with an expert pathologist's diagnosis. The mobile devices studied differed, sometimes significantly, in terms of speed and cost. The utility was improved by employing specifically designed adapters. Image acquisition and transmission represent the main critical points in almost all studies.

The use of mobile devices demonstrated promising results regarding the digital evaluation of cytological samples. Widespread adoption even in underserved areas is anticipated following validation studies, technology improvements, and reduction in the costs.