Validation of multiple whole slide imaging scanners based on the guideline from the College of American Pathologists pathology and laboratory quality center

Michael J. Thrall, Jana L. Wimmer, Mary R. Schwartz

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

40 Scopus citations

Abstract

Context. - Whole slide imaging (WSI) produces a virtual image that can be transmitted electronically. This technology has clinical applications in situations in which glass slides are not readily available. Objective. - To examine the results of a validation study performed using the draft version of the WSI clinical validation guideline recently released by the College of American Pathologists. Design. - Ten iScan Coreo Au scanners (Ventana Medical Systems, Tucson, Arizona) were validated, 6 with one set of 100 cases and 4 with a different set of 100 cases, for 1000 case examinations. The cases were selected consecutively from the following case types: internal consultations and malignancies and cases with frozen sections, special stains, and/or immunohistochemistry. Only key slides were scanned from each case. The slides were scanned at x20 magnification. Pathologists reviewed the cases as both glass slides and WSI, with at least a 3-week washout period between viewings. Results. - Intraobserver agreement between glass slides and WSI was present for 786 (79%) of the 1000 cases. Major discrepancies occurred in 18 cases (1.8%). κ statistics compiled for the subset of cases (n = 504; 50%) with concern for neoplasia showed excellent agreement (κ = 0.8782). Individual scanners performed similarly to one another. Analysis of the results revealed an area of concern: small focal findings. Conclusions. - The results were felt to validate the use of WSI for the intended applications in our multiinstitutional laboratory system, although scans at x20 magnification may be insufficient for cases hinging on small focal findings, such as microorganisms and inflammatory processes.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)656-664
Number of pages9
JournalArchives of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine
Volume139
Issue number5
DOIs
StatePublished - May 1 2015

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Pathology and Forensic Medicine
  • Medical Laboratory Technology

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