Lesson from the COVID-19 pandemic: pathologists need to build their confidence on working in a digital microscopy environment

Abstract

We read with interest the paper published by RodriguesFernandes and colleagues in the October issue of Virchows Archiv, entitled “The use of digital microscopy as a teaching method for human pathology: a systematic review” [1]. As reported by the authors, “digital microscopy (DM) has become a useful alternative to conventional light microscopy (CLM)” [1]. Due to the constrains in this perduring time of pandemic, pathologists are reconsidering the traditional approach in examining glass slides with CLM and are becoming enthusiastic about the application of DM. The constrains are related to issues pathologists are facing, including the need of keeping physical distance with colleagues and laboratory professionals, thus hampering social interaction and reducing their visibility. Such constrains can have a negative impact on their relationship with clinicians, patients, and students [2]. The question is what pathology will be like after the resolution of the pandemic, while remaining an integral part in the clinical processes. Considering that medical practices, including pathology, are moving into an era of global digitalization, the pathology practice might not return to the CLM routine followed before the pandemic [2]. From a projection screen to a virtual slide