Pathology Image Processing with Adjustable Visual Overlay
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current image processing techniques for pathological specimens are limited in presenting various pieces of information in a multifaceted way, relying heavily on specific features and being restrictive in application, which increases the diagnostic load on pathologists and does not effectively support comprehensive diagnosis.
Innovation Solution
An image processing system that includes an image acquirer, information acquirer, image generator, and receiver, allowing for multiple processing modes to display original and processed images together, with adjustable relative density and magnification, enabling users to select display modes that present various pathological findings in a user-friendly manner.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If conventional image processing techniques present only quantified indices and automatic judgment results, then the diagnostic operation can be partially automated, but the versatility and effectiveness are limited because many pathological information cannot be quantified and require doctor's expertise
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments information presentation into multiple independent modes: original image display, processed image display with extracted features, and quantitative index display. Each mode can be selected independently based on diagnostic needs, allowing both automated analysis results and expert-based visual assessment to coexist without forcing quantification on all pathological information
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically switches between different information presentation modes (original image, processed image, quantitative indices) based on user selection and diagnostic context. This dynamic adaptability allows the system to provide automated quantified results when appropriate while maintaining the ability to display unquantified visual information requiring doctor's expertise
2Loss of information
If the system displays both original image and processed image with visual information superimposed, then comprehensive pathological information can be presented, but the image complexity and information density increase making it difficult to interpret
Solution Approach 1:
The system introduces an intermediary processing layer that extracts specific pathological features from the original image and superimposes them as visual information (e.g., highlighted regions, boundary markers). This intermediary processing organizes complex information into interpretable visual cues that guide the doctor's attention without overwhelming the original image details
Solution Approach 2:
The system applies visual information enhancement locally to specific regions of interest rather than uniformly across the entire image. Pathological features are highlighted with appropriate visual markers while preserving the quality and detail of surrounding normal tissue, maintaining image interpretability while emphasizing diagnostic areas
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple processing modes are provided for different display configurations, then user needs can be better met, but the system complexity and operation difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system prepares multiple standardized processing modes in advance (e.g., full-screen original image mode, split-screen comparison mode, quantitative index overlay mode) with pre-configured optimal settings for each diagnostic scenario. Users simply select from these pre-prepared modes rather than manually configuring complex parameters, reducing operational complexity while maintaining versatility
Solution Approach 2:
The system designs processing modes that serve multiple functions simultaneously. For example, a single processing mode can display both the original image and extracted pathological features with quantitative indices, eliminating the need for separate modes for each function and simplifying user operation while providing comprehensive diagnostic information
Data Source
AI summary
An image processing apparatus includes an image acquirer for obtaining an original image of a pathological specimen, an information acquirer for obtaining finding information relating to pathological finding and an image generator for generating an output image including a processed image obtained by superimposing visual information based on the finding information on a source image. A relative density between the source image and the visual information is set according to an operation input from a user. Processing modes for generating the output image include a first mode for generating the output image in which the source image and the processed image are arranged on one screen and a second mode for generating the output image in which a wide range image at a relatively low magnification and an enlarged image representing a partial region in the wide range image at a higher magnification on one screen.