Virtual Microscopy: Potential Applications in Medical Education and Telemedicine in Countries with Developing Economies

Abstract

We evaluated the diagnostic accuracy of a virtual microscopy setup using surgical pathology specimens commonly encountered in a university hospital setting. The high quality images, Internet sharing and collaborative capability, interactivity, and ease of use suggested to us that this might have applications in countries with developing economies. We discuss the development process and its potential applications in medical education and telemedicine in countries with developing economies.