Table 4

Comparison between optical and virtual microscope evaluation methods

Microscopy featureOptical evaluationElectronic evaluation
Speed4–5 minutes2–3 minutes
CostsEvery user, high quality microscopeOne high quality scanning microscope, image server, PC
Working conditionsOnly limited number of slides can be evaluated because of fatigueNormal monitor work
ConsultationWith slide transportation or with image transfer, through ISDN, telephone lineInternet Remote access to the image server through local area network or internet
Quality controlWith special additional hardwareBy recording of evaluated image segments