Pathology 2.0: Pathology eXchange and more

Pathology community, which till recent past had been unaffected by the web revolution, is slowly waking up to realize what a boon it is to the field and Web 2.0 has changed the whole dynamics of pathology.

What is Pathology 2.0?

The term Web 2.0 is commonly associated with web applications that facilitate interactive information sharing and collaboration on the net. Social networking sites, web based communities, blogs and video sharing sites are all examples of Web 2.0 allowing the users to interact with other users or to exchange user created content.

Like in any field, in pathology too sharing of information is very important. A web based setting enables immediate distribution of digital slide images and pathologists in any corner of the world can view the same simultaneously and share their views on the course of treatment.

"Pathology 2.0 is the application of Web 2.0 tools to provide a collaborative environment for pathologists to share information and interact on the web."

With a majority of the developing countries not having access to quality healthcare, digitalpathology can help pathologists when they come across unconventional cases. Without handing over the slides the two pathologists can share a real-time consultation which is better than a conventional consultation.

This kind of sharing also helps the pharmaceutical companies to expedite research, clinical trials, and facilitate international peer review using a digital pathology platform. A digital slide-sharing network is particularly valuable for pathologists faced with shipping glass slides internationally.

PathXchange is designed to promote exchange of pathlogical cases, information, ideas and knowledge, enables pathologists to upload the slide and share the information online within minutes. The site not only offers the users to take second opinion on difficult cases but also helps them keep abreast with the latest advances in the field. The site also offers an alternative to investing in a costly local digital pathology infrastructure.

It is only a matter of time when Web 2.0, that has becomes such an important part of our lives, also improves the health care collaboration. Online communities like PathXchange are a step in that right direction.