Validating Whole Slide Imaging Systems for Diagnostic Purposes in Pathology

Publication Date: May 27, 2021
Last Updated: March 14, 2022

Recommendations

The validation process should include a sample set of at least 60 cases for one application, or use case (eg, hematoxylin-eosin–stained sections of fixed tissue, frozen sections, hematology), that reflect the spectrum and complexity of specimen types and diagnoses likely to be encountered during routine practice. The validation should include another 20 cases to cover additional applications such as immunohistochemistry or other special stains if these applications are relevant to an intended use and were not included in the 60 cases mentioned above. (Strong)
610
The validation study should establish diagnostic concordance between digital and glass slides for the same observer (ie, intraobserver variability). If concordance is less than 95%, laboratories should investigate and attempt to remedy the cause. (Strong)
610
A washout period of at least 2 weeks should occur between viewing digital and glass slides. (Strong)
610

Recommendation Grading

Overview

Title

Validating Whole Slide Imaging Systems for Diagnostic Purposes in Pathology

Authoring Organizations

American Society for Clinical Pathology

College of American Pathologists

Publication Month/Year

May 27, 2021

Last Updated Month/Year

August 29, 2024

Document Type

Guideline

External Publication Status

Published

Country of Publication

US

Health Care Settings

Ambulatory, Hospital

Intended Users

Physician, epidemiology infection prevention, nurse, nurse practitioner, physician assistant

Scope

Assessment and screening, Diagnosis

Diseases/Conditions (MeSH)

D010336 - Pathology

Keywords

guideline, Imaging Systems, Validating Whole Slide

Supplemental Methodology Resources

Data Supplement

Methodology

Number of Source Documents
55
Literature Search Start Date
December 31, 2011
Literature Search End Date
June 25, 2018