Guidelines Digital Pathology for Diagnosis on (and Reports of) Digital Images Version 1.0 Bundesverband deutscher Pathologen e.V. (Federal Association of German Pathologist)

Abstract

Digitalization is entering the medical fields with increasing velocity and impact on diagnostic and therapeutic actions. In addition, it matures to a mandatory tool of quality assurance, reliable inter-disciplinary communication, and promotion of research.The Professional Association of German Pathologists wants to support their members in their thoughts and potential implementation of virtual microscopy and related issues. It founded a committee of digital pathology. Colleagues experienced in routine surgical pathology, information technology and practice have been asked to investigate prerequisites, actual technology stages and financial considerations, and to formulate their recommendations and guidelines.Herein, the official guidelines of the Professional Association of German Pathologists are presented. The guidelines focus on practical issues, Pathologists as well as IT experts or interested researchers are invited to make use of these guidelines. Our readers are also invited to inquire specific tasks or discuss their ideas and experiences. They might either contact the committee directly, or discuss specific points of view by writing a letter to the editor, or by submission of, and to formulate a corresponding interactive publication.