Currently, anatomic pathology workflows to examine tissue samples are based on the microscope. Accurate interpretation of the results is crucial to the diagnosis and staging of each individual patient's disease and requires a great deal of skill and experience; digitizing the images that pathologists normally view through a microscope might enable the introduction of objective and quantitative image analysis tools.

A fast pathology slide scanner and an associated image management system form the basis of Philips' proposed integrated solutions for digitizing pathology workflows.

The Philips–Dako collaboration will initially focus on leveraging Dako's image analysis software for tissue-based breast cancer diagnosis using its reagents for staining HER2, estrogen receptor, progesterone receptor, p53 and Ki-67 proteins. The detection and quantification of these proteins in biopsy tissue are highly relevant for the classification of breast cancers and the selection of appropriate therapy.

Philips and Dako will also explore the possibility of extending the collaboration to include image analysis software for immunohistology-based prostate and colon cancer diagnostics.

‘We are very pleased to announce this collaboration with Philips,’ says Lars Holmkvist, CEO of Dako. ‘By joining forces with Philips, we will be able to deliver highly competitive diagnostic tools based on Philips' extensive clinical expertise and technology know-how and Dako's expertise in advanced staining and image analysis in order to benefit pathology laboratories, pathologists and ultimately patients.’