Digital Technology in Diagnostic Breast Pathology and Immunohistochemistry

Pathobiology. 2022;89(5):334-342. doi: 10.1159/000521149. Epub 2021 Dec 30.

Abstract

Digital technology has been used in the field of diagnostic breast pathology and immunohistochemistry (IHC) for decades. Examples include automated tissue processing and staining, digital data processing, storing and management, voice recognition systems, and digital technology-based production of antibodies and other IHC reagents. However, the recent application of whole slide imaging technology and artificial intelligence (AI)-based tools has attracted a lot of attention. The use of AI tools in breast pathology is discussed briefly as it is covered in other reviews. Here, we present the main application of digital technology in IHC. This includes automation of IHC staining, using image analysis systems and computer vision technology to interpret IHC staining, and the use of AI-based tools to predict marker expression from haematoxylin and eosin-stained digitalized images.

Keywords: Applications; Artificial intelligence; Diagnosis; Digital pathology; Immunohistochemistry; Whole slide image.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Artificial Intelligence*
  • Digital Technology*
  • Eosine Yellowish-(YS)
  • Humans
  • Image Processing, Computer-Assisted / methods
  • Immunohistochemistry

Substances

  • Eosine Yellowish-(YS)