Send us a text

In this episode of the Digital Pathology Podcast, I sit down with Dr. Yuri Nikiforov, founder of the World Tumor Registry, to explore how this global, open-access whole slide image platform contributes to cancer diagnostics, education, and research.

We talk about how the registry allows pathologists, researchers, and patients to view curated whole-slide images from around the world, starting with thyroid tumors and expanding into other cancers like breast and lung. 

Learn how AI, molecular diagnostics, and editorial curation come together to build a truly global pathology tool that’s free for everyone, forever.

🧠 Key Highlights:

• [00:00:00] What the World Tumor Registry is and why it was created
  
  
  
• [00:03:00] How it works: curated, high-quality digital slides from across the globe
  
  
  
• [00:06:00] Interactive diagnostic tools for pathologists and students
  
  
  
• [00:10:00] Contributor guidelines and editorial board responsibilities
  
  
  
• [00:15:00] Using the platform as a patient, clinician, or researcher
  
  
  
• [00:24:00] The role of AI and future treatment-focused video add-ons
  
  
  
• [00:34:00] Platform design, data standards, and free access for all
  
  
  
• [00:42:00] Why this global database is a breakthrough for education and equity
  
  
  

🎧 Listen now to learn how you can contribute, explore rare cases, or use the platform to educate patients, students, and even yourself.

📌 Explore the Registry or Donate:
 https://worldtumorregistry.org

#DigitalPathology #WorldTumorRegistry #GlobalCancerCare #PathologyEducation #OpenAccessData

Support the show

Become a Digital Pathology Trailblazer get the "Digital Pathology 101" FREE E-book and join us!

Send us a text

In this episode of the Digital Pathology Podcast, I explore the ethical and bias considerations in AI and machine learning through the lens of pathology. This is part six of our special seven-part series based on the landmark Modern Pathology review co-authored by the UPMC group, including Matthew Hanna, Liam Pantanowitz, and Hooman Rashidi.

From data bias and algorithmic bias to labeling, sampling, and representation issues, I break down where biases in AI can arise—and what we, as medical data stewards, must do to recognize, mitigate, and avoid them.

🔬 Key Topics Covered:

• [00:00:00] Introduction and post-USCAP 2025 reflections
• [00:03:00] Overview of AI and ethics paper from Modern Pathology
• [00:06:00] What it means to be a “data steward” in pathology
• [00:08:00] Core ethical principles: autonomy, beneficence, justice & more
• [00:13:00] Types of bias in AI systems: data, sampling, algorithmic, labeling
• [00:22:00] Temporal and feedback loop bias examples in pathology
• [00:29:00] FDA involvement and global guidelines for ethical AI
• [00:34:00] Bias mitigation: from diverse datasets to ongoing monitoring
• [00:43:00] The FAIR principles for responsible data use
• [00:49:00] AI development & reporting frameworks: QUADAS, CONSORT, STARD

🩺 Why This Episode Matters:
If we want to deploy AI ethically and reliably in pathology, we must check our bias—not just once, but at every stage of AI development. This episode gives you practical tools, frameworks, and principles for building responsible AI workflows from the ground up.

🎧 Listen now and become a more conscious and capable digital pathology data steward.

👉 Get the Paper here: Ethical and Bias Considerations in Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning

 📘 Explore more on this topic: https://digitalpathologyplace.com

Support the show

Become a Digital Pathology Trailblazer get the "Digital Pathology 101" FREE E-book and join us!

Send us a text

USCAP 2025 Daily Update – Day 4 with Dr. Aleksandra Zuraw

It’s the final day of USCAP 2025, and in this episode of the Digital Pathology Podcast, I’m sharing personal moments, spontaneous tech wins (and fails), and meaningful conversations with some of the most forward-thinking voices in digital pathology.

From running around with mics and misplaced tripods to interviewing Dr. Dry and Dr. Ozumura, this episode captures both the spirit of innovation and the real-world challenges of advancing digital workflows—especially in environments where regulations still lag behind.

🔬 Key Topics Covered:

• [00:00:00] Morning mishaps, behind-the-scenes livestream chaos
• [00:02:00] Meeting international listeners and the Korean heart selfie tip 💙
• [00:03:00] MUSE Booth podcast recordings with Dr. Dry (UCLA)
• [00:05:00] Change management, leadership, and building digital culture
• [00:06:00] Dr. Ozumura's dual-mode pathology workflow in Japan
• [00:08:00] Digital pathology for remote areas and island-based diagnostics
• [00:10:00] What's new at vendor booths? Launching a vendor highlight roundup
• [00:12:00] Interoperability, collaboration, and the growing presence of digital
• [00:14:00] Reflections on the final day, networking, and the future of pathology

🩺 Why This Episode Matters:
Digital pathology is no longer an add-on—it’s the foundation of future workflows. Day 4 at USCAP showed how global leaders, industry partners, and early adopters are all rallying behind the need for interoperability, real-time imaging, and inclusive innovation. Whether it’s Japan’s regulatory balancing act or the power of leadership at institutions like UCLA, this episode is packed with perspective.

🎧 Listen now and close out USCAP 2025 with insights, laughs, and inspiration.

Support the show

Become a Digital Pathology Trailblazer get the "Digital Pathology 101" FREE E-book and join us!

Send us a text

USCAP 2025 Daily Update – Day 3 Recap with Dr. Aleksandra Zuraw

In this episode of the Digital Pathology Podcast, I bring you Day 3 insights live from USCAP 2025—from moderating the MUSE panel on slide-free imaging to exploring regulatory strategies, tech innovations, and collaborations across the digital pathology community.

Get an inside look at how direct-to-digital pathology is transforming workflows, how companies like Techcyte are streamlining AI applications, and why regulatory strategy is as crucial as your scanning tech.

🔬 Key Topics Covered:

• [00:00:00] Behind the scenes: MUSE panel highlights and audience turnout
• [00:02:00] Slide-free imaging and concordance studies with Dr. Levenson and Dr. Rao
• [00:03:00] Regulatory insights from Esther Abels on digital pathology FDA strategy
• [00:05:00] Poster struggles, TikTok pathology posters, and missed moments
• [00:07:00] Techcyte’s new Fusion platform and use across cellular imaging departments
• [00:08:00] On-the-floor interviews with thought leaders and innovators
• [00:10:00] Where does glassless imaging fit into your workflow?
• [00:12:00] Collaboration opportunities and global connections at the MUSE booth
• [00:13:00] Final thoughts on community, education, and digital pathology’s future

🩺 Why This Episode Matters:
Day 3 was packed with inspiration, breakthroughs, and powerful conversations. Whether you’re navigating regulatory approval, researching AI integration, or figuring out how slide-free imaging fits into your diagnostic flow, this update offers real-world insight from experts shaping the future of pathology.

🎧 Listen now for highlights, reflections, and what’s next at USCAP 2025!

Support the show

Become a Digital Pathology Trailblazer get the "Digital Pathology 101" FREE E-book and join us!

Send us a text

USCAP 2025 Daily Update – Day 2 with Dr. Aleksandra Zuraw

Welcome back to the Digital Pathology Podcast live from USCAP 2025! On Day 2, I dive into the momentum building across the conference—covering major trends, tech insights, and how digital pathology is no longer just a topic, but a critical tool used to deliver sessions and share knowledge.

From vendor-driven presentations to real-world applications of AI and slide-free technology, this episode explores how digital workflows are being integrated into education, diagnostics, and collaboration on a global scale.

🔬 Key Topics Covered:

• [00:00:00] Day 2 kickoff and society meetings at USCAP
• [00:01:00] Exploring digital talks via touchscreen and vendor-driven sessions
• [00:02:00] How digital tech is embedded into conference presentations
• [00:03:00] Preview of the MUSE Exhibitor Seminar and QR registration
• [00:04:00] Meet the MUSE Panelists: Dr. Richard Levenson, Dr. Rao, and Dr. Jeff Edwards
• [00:06:00] Challenges of digital pathology integration in institutions
• [00:08:00] Conversations about low-cost digital pathology solutions
• [00:09:00] Asian Society of Digital Pathology and regional scanning hubs
• [00:10:00] Updates from PathPresenter, PathAI, and Diaagnexia
• [00:12:00] Poster hall builds, upcoming highlights, and short content plans
• [00:13:00] Call for podcast guests and global collaboration in pathology

🩺 Why This Episode Matters:
Day 2 at USCAP proves that digital pathology is more than a buzzword—it's essential infrastructure for modern diagnostics, education, and global collaboration. From slide-free imaging to low-resource adaptations, we discuss how technology is not only scaling workflows but also making pathology more accessible worldwide.

🎧 Listen to the full episode now and join me as we explore the digital heartbeat of USCAP 2025!

Support the show

Become a Digital Pathology Trailblazer get the "Digital Pathology 101" FREE E-book and join us!

Send us a text

USCAP 2025 Daily Update – Day 1 Highlights from Dr. Aleksandra Zuraw

Welcome to the first live daily update from USCAP 2025, recorded straight from the conference floor by Dr. Aleksandra Zuraw, your host at Digital Pathology Place. In this episode, Aleks shares behind-the-scenes moments, exciting vendor previews, and key updates as the world’s largest pathology meeting kicks off.

🔬 Key Topics Covered:

• [00:00:00] Welcome and What to Expect at USCAP 2025
• [00:01:00] Media, Exhibitor, and Partner Badges – Working with MUSE, Techcyte & Roche
• [00:02:00] Behind-the-Scenes Glimpse of Booth Setups and Event Logistics
• [00:03:00] Highlights on Digital Pathology Representation Across Exhibitors
• [00:04:00] MUSE Microscopy’s Role and Digital Imaging Focus at the Event
• [00:05:00] Upcoming MUSE Exhibitor Seminar Details
• [00:06:00] Call for Podcast Guests, Poster Presenters, and Collaborators
• [00:07:00] The App, Community Engagement, and First-Day Observations
• [00:08:00] Final Thoughts and Invitation to Connect at USCAP

🩺 Why This Episode Matters:
This isn’t just a recap—it’s a front-row pass to what’s shaping up to be the most exciting year yet for digital pathology at USCAP. From vendor collaborations to hands-on event involvement, you’ll hear how AI, whole-slide imaging, and direct-to-digital technology are being showcased and discussed across the floor.

Support the show

Become a Digital Pathology Trailblazer get the "Digital Pathology 101" FREE E-book and join us!

Send us a text

In this episode of the Digital Pathology Podcast, I sit down with Matthew Nuñez, CEO of MUSE Microscopy, to discuss the groundbreaking advancements in direct-to-digital imaging in pathology. Traditional pathology workflows rely on glass slides, formalin fixation, and time-consuming processing steps. But what if we could skip the slide entirely and go straight to digital?

🔬 Key Topics Covered:

• [00:00:00] The Challenges of Traditional Pathology Workflows
• [00:01:00] Introducing MUSE: The First Direct-to-Digital Pathology Imager
• [00:02:00] How MUSE Captures Whole Tissue Images Without Slides
• [00:04:00] The Science Behind Microscopy with UV Light Surface Excitation
• [00:06:00] Eliminating Tissue Processing Delays with Real-Time Imaging
• [00:08:00] How Direct-to-Digital Imaging Improves Speed & Diagnostic Accuracy
• [00:10:00] Applications in Pathology: From Clinical Use to Organ Transplants
• [00:12:00] How MUSE Supports Remote and Mobile Pathology Clinics
• [00:15:00] Bridging the Gap Between Veterinary and Human Pathology
• [00:18:00] The Future of Pathology: Faster Diagnoses, Better Patient Care

🩺 Why This Episode Matters:
Pathology is the gateway to diagnosis and patient care—but traditional workflows create delays, inefficiencies, and logistical challenges. With direct-to-digital imaging, we can eliminate glass slides, reduce errors, and enable real-time diagnostics. In this conversation, Matthew Nuñez explains how MUSE is transforming pathology by bringing AI-powered imaging directly to the tissue, skipping the slide, and making diagnoses faster than ever before.

🚀 What’s Next?
This disruptive technology is paving the way for on-site pathology, remote consultations, and real-time patient interaction. If you're attending USCAP 2025, make sure to visit the MUSE booth and witness direct-to-digital imaging in action.

📢 Can't attend in person? Join the USCAP 2025 online experience on March 24, 2025, from 5:30 to 7:00 PM EST! 

REGISTER HERE

ℹ️ This Episode's Resources:

• Muse Microscopy website
• This episode on YouTube
• Muse Presentation at USCAP livestream - REGISTER NOW

#DigitalPathology #AIinHealthcare #PathologyInnovation #DirectToDigital

Support the show

Become a Digital Pathology Trailblazer get the "Digital Pathology 101" FREE E-book and join us!

Send us a text

How Can Digital Pathology Workflows Stay Compliant and Efficient?

In this episode of the Digital Pathology Podcast, I sit down with Scott Randall, Senior Application Specialist at Hamamatsu (Hamamatsu NanoZoomer), and Amanda Coble, Senior Director of Product for Proscia (Proscia’s Website), to discuss the critical role of compliance, interoperability, and efficiency in digital pathology workflows.

🔬 Key Topics Covered:

• [00:00:00] Introduction and Initial Challenges in Digital Pathology Compliance
• [00:01:00] Guest Introductions: Meet Scott and Amanda
• [00:03:00] Hamamatsu’s FDA Clearance Journey: Lessons Learned
• [00:06:00] Proscia’s Path to FDA Clearance and Partnering with Hamamatsu
• [00:10:00] How Digital Pathology Systems Maintain Compliance
• [00:14:00] The Advantages of Open Architecture in Digital Pathology
• [00:18:00] Overcoming Challenges in Slide Scanning and Logistics
• [00:22:00] Phases of Digital Pathology Adoption and Future-Proofing Labs
• [00:27:00] The Role of AI and Automation in Digital Pathology Workflows
• [00:32:00] Advice for Vendors Looking to Build Compliant Digital Pathology Solutions
• [00:38:00] Final Thoughts: The Future of Interoperability and Compliance

🩺 Why This Episode Matters:
Regulatory approval in digital pathology isn’t just about scanning slides—it’s about building a seamless, interoperable workflow that ensures accuracy, efficiency, and compliance. Hamamatsu and Proscia were among the first companies to successfully achieve FDA clearance for their integrated solutions, setting the stage for future innovations in AI-powered digital pathology.

Episode Resources:

• Learn more about Hamamatsu’s NanoZoomer series: Hamamatsu NanoZoomer
• Discover Proscia’s AI-driven pathology software: Proscia’s Website
• Read the DPP Blog on selecting the right whole-slide scanner: Choosing the Right Whole-Slide Scanner for Your Pathology Lab

Support the show

Become a Digital Pathology Trailblazer get the "Digital Pathology 101" FREE E-book and join us!

Send us a text

What if we could skip glass slides altogether and go straight from fresh tissue to digital image? Muse Microscopy's SmartPath device aims to do just that, capturing diagnostic-quality images directly from fresh tissue. 

In this episode brought to you by Muse Microscopy, I sit down with Dr. Rao and Dr. Edwards to discuss the insights, challenges, and future of this groundbreaking technology. 

We explore its regulatory ramifications, change management in veterinary and human pathology, and financial feasibility. 

Tune in to learn why SmartPath could be a game-changer for both pathologists and patients.

00:00 Introduction to SmartPath Technology
00:54 Meet the Experts: Dr. Rao and Dr. Edwards
01:08 FDA Approval and Implementation Plans
01:35 Change Management in Pathology
01:56 Training Pathologists for SmartPath
03:48 Translational Tissue Banking and Clinical Applications
04:29 Impact on Breast Pathology
05:49 Pathologists' Reception and Adoption
14:33 Financial Viability and ROI
19:44 Conclusion and Future Prospects

Links and Resources:

• This episode on YouTube
• Muse Microscopy Website
• SmartPath Device Demo Video

Support the show

Become a Digital Pathology Trailblazer get the "Digital Pathology 101" FREE E-book and join us!

Send us a text

Transforming Pathology: A Deep Dive into the Muse System

This episode is sponsored by Muse Microscopy. 

In this episode, we explore the primary challenge of implementing digital pathology globally—digitizing the analog. 

A potential solution is direct-to-digital pathology, exemplified by the MUSE system by Muse Microscopy. This technology eliminates the need for glass slides and manual staining, offering rapid, non-destructive imaging of intact tissue samples. 

You will learn about the advantages of Muse, including faster diagnostics, improved data fidelity, and broader accessibility, particularly in remote areas.

 Detailed insights into the Muse workflow, imaging techniques, and potential applications in human and veterinary medicine are provided. 

Challenges like adoption barriers and regulatory hurdles are also addressed. Join us as we explore how the Muse system is redefining diagnostic workflows and enhancing patient outcomes.

00:00 Introduction to Digital Pathology
00:18 The Hurdle of Digitizing Analog Pathology
00:26 Direct to Digital Pathology: A Game Changer
01:46 Introduction to Muse Microscopy
02:32 How Direct to Digital Pathology Works
03:10 Advantages of Direct to Digital Pathology
04:13 Understanding Muse Technology
05:26 The Digital Pathology Workflow with Muse
14:15 Challenges and Misconceptions
15:38 The Future of Pathology
16:31 Frequently Asked Questions
18:07 Conclusion and Additional Resources
18:54 Behind the Scenes and Final Thoughts

Links and Resources:

• Original blog post on Digital Pathology Place  Website and LinkedIn
• YouTube playlist with more information about MUSE
• SmartPath Product presentation from CAP 2024
• Video showing the SmartPath device at the conference booth
• USCAP in Boston - Muse Microscopy booth #528

Support the show

Become a Digital Pathology Trailblazer get the "Digital Pathology 101" FREE E-book and join us!