What should you know about Sectra digital pathology?

In digital pathology, a glass slide made from a biopsy or surgical specimen is scanned into a high-resolution image. A pathologist can inspect the digital slide, zoom into areas of interest, and discuss the case with colleagues without moving the physical slide between locations. Sectra is a platform used by some healthcare organisations for this kind of workflow. It does not replace the pathologist’s clinical interpretation. The report still combines what the tissue looks like with your history, imaging, and other laboratory findings.

Ask which part of your diagnosis came from the pathology report and whether the sample was reviewed by a specialist in your cancer type. You can request an explanation of unfamiliar terms, including tumour type, grade, margins, or biomarker findings when they appear in your report. If the diagnosis or treatment recommendation is unclear, discuss whether a Second Opinion would help. Keep copies of the pathology report and know whether the original slide or digital file can be reviewed by another service.

Digital pathology itself does not cause physical symptoms. Seek prompt clinical advice for new or worsening symptoms from your illness or treatment, such as uncontrolled pain, fever, bleeding, or sudden weakness. Do not wait for a digital report to address an emergency. Contact the team handling your case if a result is delayed and a treatment decision depends on it.

Was my specimen scanned and reviewed digitally? Who signed the pathology report? Were additional stains or biomarker tests needed? Can another pathologist review the same material, and how will the findings affect my treatment choices?