Abstract
In digital microscopes and whole slide imaging systems, images of slides are captured, transmitted, and reproduced on a computer display. In order to allow pathologists to interpret these images accurately and efficiently, it is important that colors from the slides are displayed in a consistent and reliable fashion. The final color of the image presented to the viewing pathologist depends on several steps through the imaging pathway, including sample illumination, magnification, image capture, compression, storage, and reproduction on the computer display. There are many possible system designs and, within a single system, different setup options which can affect the final image leading to significant variation in image appearances. This paper summarizes recent work by members of the International Color Consortium Medical Imaging Working Group to develop test materials and methods for the assessment of color calibration of digital microscope systems. This work includes sharing of ideas on device calibration and image processing and display. The paper further discusses the challenges encountered in the development of a suitable color target that includes a set of patches with spectra similar to those encountered when viewing pathology slides with stained tissue samples.
Highlights
Staining of tissue sections on glass slides is the foundation on which diagnosis and prognosis in pathology are based.In digital microscopes and whole slide imaging (WSI) systems, images of slides are captured, transmitted, and reproduced on a computer display
We have proposed an objective measure for the color performance of digital microscope systems which allows the overall result of this processing sequence to be assessed
The resulting profiles can be used to compare display performance, but as they do not include measurement of the color variation introduced by the imaging device
Summary
Staining of tissue sections on glass slides is the foundation on which diagnosis and prognosis in pathology are based. In digital microscopes and whole slide imaging (WSI) systems, images of slides are captured, transmitted, and reproduced on a computer display. In order to allow pathologists to interpret these images accurately and efficiently, it is important that colors from the slides are displayed in a consistent and reliable fashion.
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary 
Published Version
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call