Extracting accurate size and shape information from histological preparations using image analysis can be difficult, but this system makes it easy
Trying to extract accurate size and shape information from histological preparations using image analysis can often be difficult, especially when some of the tissues extend beyond the current field of view.
Few image analysis products allow features to be 'joined up' across fields.
Even fewer manage this using the customer's existing microscope stage; nearly always a motorised stage has to be purchased, adding considerably to the cost of the system.
This can also significantly deteriorate the user's normal interaction with their microscope.
The HistoLab image analysis system from GT HistoVision neatly solves this problem by adding positioning encoders to the existing microscope stage.
This tells HistoLab the precise current location on the slide, allowing any drawn lines or areas to be continued beyond a single field of view. Additionally, every time a measurement is made a digital picture is taken of the field of view.
These pictures and measurements are automatically added to a composite image, giving a superb, high resolution overview of large areas of the slide with all the measured areas included.
HistoLab can be used to compare tissue types, for instance users can count the number of nuclei along a length of intestinal wall or measure the ratio of blood vessel wall thickness to the lumen area.
Measurements can be interactive or automatic, including full colour analysis.
Ian Baldwin of GT HistoVision comments: "The HistoLab system has been designed with histologists and cytologists and represents a considerable breakthrough in image analysis technology.
"It is a popular tool throughout Europe and users comment on its ease of use, superb report facilities and its great value for money."
