Whole Slide Imaging: Principles and Applications in Pathology Practice (Online CE Course)

Authors: Galina Khramtsova, MD, PhD, MS, HTL(ASCP)CM and Andrey Khramtsov, MD, PhD, MS, PA(ASCP)CM
Reviewer: Brandon Possum, HT(ASCP)

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Continuing Education Credits

P.A.C.E.® Contact Hours (acceptable for AMT, ASCP, and state recertification): 1 hour(s)
Approved through 6/30/2028
Approved through 6/30/2028

Objectives

  • Explain the foundational concepts and development of digitized histopathology glass slides, also known as whole slide images (WSI).
  • Describe the basic principles of scanning and storing whole slide images.
  • Define essential equipment and tools related to the whole slide images.
  • Explain advantages of digital whole slides images.
  • Identify application of whole slide images in anatomic pathology practice.
  • Recognize artifacts and implement quality control strategies to improve whole slide imaging quality.
  • Discuss the regulatory framework and College of American Pathologists accreditation requirements for whole slide imaging and digital pathology.

Course Outline

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  • Overview of Whole Slide Imaging
      • Introduction to Whole Slide Imaging and Digital Pathology
      • Key Definitions
      • Brief History
      • Digital pathology is best defined as:
  • Basic Principles of Whole Slide Imaging
  • Essential Equipment and Digital Systems for Whole Slide Imaging
  • Current Uses of Whole Slide Imaging
      • Application in Education and Training
      • Application in Clinical Practice
      • Application in Conferences and Tumor Boards
      • What is the main benefit of WSI in remote consultations?
  • Advantages and Limitations of Whole Slide Imaging
      • Advantages
      • Key Challenges and Limitations
      • Which of the following best describes an educational advantage of WSI?
  • Hidden Facts: Histology and Scanning Artifacts in Whole Slide Imaging
  • Role of Anatomical Pathology Professionals in Validation and Quality Control
      • Improving Whole Slide Image Quality: Key Tips for Histotechnologists
      • Improving Whole Slide Image Quality: Key Tips for the Scanning Operator
      • Whole Slide Imaging Validation for Primary Diagnosis: Principles and Practice
      • According to CAP guidelines, system validation for WSI should include:
  • Regulatory Requirements
  • Conclusion
  • References
      • References

Additional Information

Level of Instruction: Intermediate
Intended Audience: Histotechnologists, histotechnicians, pathologists' assistants, laboratory supervisors, and laboratory managers. This course is also appropriate for HTL and HT students, cytologists, and pathology residents.
Author Information:  
Galina F. Khramtsova, MD, PhD, MS, HTL(ASCP)CM, earned her MD and PhD degrees at the St. Petersburg State I.I. Mechnikov Medical Academy. She also holds an MS degree in biology from St. Petersburg State University. She worked for many years in the field of molecular pathology and research. Currently, she is working as a senior scientist in the Department of Medicine at the University of Chicago and is involved in the research and training of rotating medical students, residents, and fellows in medical laboratory science.
Andrey I. Khramtsov, MD, PhD, MS, PA(ASCP)CM, earned his MD and PhD degrees at the St. Petersburg State Medical Academy. He was a staff pathologist in various hospitals and universities in Russia and as a senior scientist at the University of Chicago. He also holds an MS degree from the Pathologists' Assistant Program at the Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science. Currently, he is working in the Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine at Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago and is involved in the training of medical students, residents, and fellows.
The authors have no conflict of interest to disclose.
Reviewer Information: Brandon Possum, HT(ASCP), is a histotechnologist with over a decade of specialized experience in Mohs histology at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. He is board-certified by the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) and holds a New York State Histotechnician (HT) license. Brandon began his career with a strong foundation in traditional histology through his formal college education before advancing into the specialized field of Mohs frozen sectioning. In addition to his clinical work, Brandon is actively engaged in professional education. He regularly participates in speaking engagements and educational sessions focused on Mohs histology.
Course Description: Whole slide imaging (WSI) is a digital pathology method that creates high-resolution scanned images of entire histopathology glass slides. WSI supports diagnostic review, quality assurance, telepathology, teaching, digital archiving, and image analysis. WSI integrates essential scanning equipment, digital platforms, and standardized workflows. This course focuses on core principles of whole slide imaging, including scanning, storage, quality control, regulatory requirements, and practical applications for laboratory professionals.

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Figure 1. Schematic illustration of the fundamental digital transition in anatomic pathology, depicting the conversion of a traditional glass slide into a high-resolution digital whole slide image


Figure 3. Under the hood: internal optical and motorized components of a whole slide scanner


Figure 4. From glass slide to digital image: step-by-step process