Telecytology and its evolving role in cytopathology

The advancement of telecommunication technology in the area of digital transfer of images form distant site has resulted in exploration of this technology in the area of cytopathology. Telecytology facilitates the electronic transmission of microscopic images using static, dynamic, and whole slide imaging systems. Recent articles have generated an interest in the use of this technology for immediate assessment of fine‐needle aspirations. Telecytology has potential for use in second opinion, quality assurance, slide archiving, proficiency testing, and distance‐based education. This review discusses the current and potential applications of telecytology in cytopathology practice and its limitation and advantages. Diagn. Cytopathol. 2012;40:498–502. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

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