Image Analysis

In the field of digital pathology, image analysis refers to the computer-aided diagnostic assessment of whole slide images (WSIs). While image analysis is clearly another application of WSI, we feel that the subject has become vast enough to warrant its own chapter. The potential of digital pathology has taken another giant step with the emergence of computer-assisted WSI analysis. To overcome challenges related to optimizing speed and accuracy, numerous statistical manipulations and algorithms have been generated adapted, and adopted to enhance the detection, quantification, and characterization of pathology. In this chapter, both the histories and current state of digital pathology and WSI analysis are reviewed, as well as the challenges that remain to optimize their use. It is clear that the potential of digital pathology is almost boundless, but that much work remains to be done.