As the third decade of the twenty-first century begins, the future of healthcare is in everyone’s mind. And few fields are poised to witness as dramatic an evolution as digital pathology in 2020.
Digital pathology, in a nutshell, is the digitization of glass slides made by medical imaging devices. These digital slides can then be easily viewed on mobile devices and computers. They can also be quickly shared with medical providers and researchers.
But with the increasing demand for instant access to medical information, digital pathology is on the cusp of dramatic growth.
Digital Pathology in 2020
By 2027, the global market size for digital pathology is expected to increase to nearly $2 billion. Much of that growth is projected to occur in the Asia-Pacific region.
However, in the nearer term, the use of digital pathology techniques will almost certainly expand in all parts of the world. With the need to rapidly diagnose diseases like COVID-19, and the continuing need to identify cancers, the speed and ease of telepathology can make all the difference in saving lives.
Digital pathology is entirely dependent upon the evolution of new technology. So let’s take a look at some of the advancements that will drive its adoption in 2020.
Whole Slide Imaging
Also known as virtual microscopy, whole slide imaging involves scanning the entire microscope slide and storing it as a high-resolution digital file. Pathologists can then navigate the slide as one would Google Maps, and the slide can be easily shared with colleagues around the world.
Robotic Microscopy
Robotic microscopes work by automating the process of scanning samples. At the same time, they can automatically digitize the imagery for the use of digital pathologists.
Computer-Aided Diagnosis (CAD)
By using AI algorithms to interpret digital slides, computer-aided diagnosis streamlines medical diagnoses. This increases the accuracy and efficiency of the diagnostic process.
Ultimately, computer-aided diagnosis will help realize the full potential of digital pathology. The goal is not to replace human technicians, whose experience and judgment is invaluable. Rather, it’s to automate the routine and improve overall efficiency.
That way, pathologists can focus on finding solutions to medical problems.
The Forecast for the Future
It may well be that 2020 will be regarded as a watershed year for digital pathology.
Despite its enormous promise, the medical industry has been slow to adopt it. This is because most labs didn’t have the incentive to invest large sums in digitizing their work.
But things may be changing. The COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted many things, including the field of medical diagnosis. The pressing worldwide need for rapid diagnostics may finally provide the financial incentive to invest in digital pathology.
Learn More About the Future of Digital Pathology
If you wish to learn more about digital pathology, and how it can work for your medical facility, please don’t hesitate to contact us today.
