Telepathology and Teleradiology

Abstract

The relationship between telepathology and teleradiology is discussed. Although both disciplines have numerous features in common several differences can be noted. The performance of teleradiology is more advanced than that of telepathology: standards have been developed (DICOM 3) and radiologists are trained to judge digital images which include still images (CT scan, MRI) and images sequences (angiographs). The size of radiologic images is small compared to that of histological images of high resolution. The patchwork technique or store and forward dynamic telepathology are tools to obtain high resolution images in histopathology. They require sophisticated data banks for handling and telepathology use. These databanks need standards for user independent access. The DICOM standard used in radiology is applicable for these purposes. Teleradiology and telepathology meet each other in various medical disciplines, especially in orthopedic oncology and chronic pulmonary diseases. The potential share of telecommunication in radiology and pathology owns a great potential for modern health services.