Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 22, 2026
06:42
Optimization of Breast Biopsy and Mastectomy Sample Collection Procedures for Biobanking, Personalized Medicine, and Research Applications
Published on: September 2, 2025
Optimizing breast core needle biopsy biomarker throughput using an AI-based workflow
Frederik Deman1,2, Glenn Broeckx1,3, Quentin Degotte1
1Department of Pathology, Ziekenhuis aan de Stroom (ZAS), Antwerp, Belgium.
Histopathology
|May 21, 2026
Summary
An AI-supported workflow significantly reduced breast cancer biomarker testing turnaround time by 30% without impacting diagnostic accuracy. This AI integration in pathology labs enhances efficiency for faster patient care.
Area of Science:
- Pathology
- Artificial Intelligence
- Oncology
Background:
- Breast cancer biomarker testing is crucial for treatment decisions.
- Current workflows can have lengthy turnaround times impacting patient care.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the feasibility and impact of an AI-supported workflow on breast cancer biomarker testing.
- To assess the effect on turnaround time (TAT) and diagnostic relevance.
Main Methods:
- A retrospective study compared pre- and post-implementation phases of an AI system (IBEX™ Breast) integrated into the Laboratory Information System (LIS).
- AI stratified H&E slides, autonomously ordering biomarker tests (ER, PR, HER2, Ki-67) for high-likelihood invasive carcinoma cases.
- Turnaround time (TATtech and TATclin) was measured, and the relevance of AI-initiated testing was assessed.
Main Results:
- The AI-enhanced workflow significantly reduced TATtech by approximately 30% (32h to 23h) and TATclin by approximately 1 working day.
- Diagnostic accuracy was maintained, with no unnecessary stains triggered by the AI system.
- The relevance of AI-initiated testing for final diagnosis was confirmed.
Conclusions:
- Integrated, LIS-embedded AI significantly optimizes breast cancer biomarker TAT in pathology laboratories.
- AI enhances laboratory efficiency and supports rapid, patient-centered oncologic care without compromising diagnostic quality.
