Training of pathologists in the digital macroscopic photography

The pathology practice environment varies per healthcare setting. However, anatomic pathology is a visual applied science discipline and incorporation of high-quality images into a surgical pathology report is essential. Each specimen received for morphological examination is unique and variation in the description can exist between prosectors and they experience. That is why gross descriptions supported with digital photographs can eliminate the insufficiency of macroscopic examination. To form and strengthen pathologists’ competencies in digital macroscopic photography a problem-based learning approach is used for training. A problem-based learning ensures the strength of the acquired knowledge since it is obtained in an independent activity. The article discusses what type of problems a pathologist should solve when taking a macroscopic photograph of a surgical specimen. An analysis of literature on modern equipment for digital macroscopic photography was performed. Recommendations for step-by-step photographing, and schematic mapping for surgical specimen triaging are provided. An option is proposed for actively developing professional competencies including creation of digital photo archives of surgical gross specimens, as well as study sections and discussions by professionals at forums such as society meetings. It was concluded that pathologists’ competency in digital macroscopic photography is necessary to maintain a high standard of medical care.