Diagnosis at the microscope: a workplace study of histopathology

Histopathologists diagnose cancer and other diseases by using a microscope to examine glass slides containing thin sections of human tissue. Technological advances mean that it is now possible to digitise the slides so that they can be viewed on a computer, promising a number of benefits in terms of both efficiency and safety. Despite this, uptake of digital microscopy for diagnostic work has been slow, and research suggests scepticism and uncertainty amongst histopathologists. In order to design a successful digital microscope, one which fits with the work practices of histopathologists and which they are happy to use within their daily work, we have undertaken a workplace study of a histopathology department. In this paper, we present the findings of that study and discuss the implications of these findings for the design of a digital microscope. The findings emphasise the way in which a diagnosis is built up as particular features on the glass slides are noticed and highlighted and the various information sources that are drawn on in the process of making a diagnosis.