Frequently asked questions concerning the use of whole-slide imaging telepathology for neuropathology frozen sections

TP involves the provision of pathology services over a distance using the Internet to link pathologists at the “viewing site” with diagnostic material in a “remote site.” Robotic microscopes were a mainstay of TP; however, this is now changing with the development of whole-slide imaging (WSI) systems which enable rapid production of digital slides that can be reviewed over a complete range of magnifications with a viewing experience closely replicating that of light microscopy. As such, WSI will undoubtedly become a viable option for pathology departments considering TP for remote frozen section (FS) coverage, and in the future for rapid consultation on difficult cases. For reasons to be discussed below, it may be particularly attractive to use WSI TP for neuropathology frozen sections (NPFS). We have been using WSI TP for primary NPFS diagnoses since 2006. This brief review provides answers to questions that we have frequently been asked about our program. The answers reflect our experience, and it is important to note that our recommendations may not be applicable in all institutions. The reader is directed to the recent literature for more detailed information on WSI as well as a complete description of our TP program.