When a sample of cells is taken from the cervix for analysis, some of the sample is placed on a glass slide and examined under a microscope by a cytology screener.
Cytology screeners are highly trained and experienced medical scientists who use comprehensive scanning techniques when examining slides to detect cervical abnormalities.
An essential element for any successful cytology screening scheme requires the provision of a quality assurance program to ensure screeners retain a high degree of proficiency and consistency in the detection and reporting of specimen abnormalities. A program for continuous education and training is also necessary to ensure screeners are up-to-date with the methods used to screen, detect and diagnose cervical disease.
Digital Microscopy is a leading edge technology that captures a high- resolution digital image of a glass slide that may subsequently be viewed using microscope simulator software that emulates the experience of using a conventional microscope.
We are using Digital Microscopy to allow multiple cytology screeners to independently examine digital representations of glass slides. This allows us to measure the consistency of diagnosis amongst individual screeners to ensure it is of the highest standard and provide valuable feedback to screeners as to their level of professional performance.
We are also using Digital Microscopy to build an archive of cases containing standard, rare, and unusual abnormalities that are of educational value to screeners. This will provide an easily accessible rich resource of educational material that will contribute greatly to the continued professional development and education of screeners.
For an example of a digital cervical smear see this link (the link may take some time to open and requires Flash 9).
