Testing feasibility of an accurate microscopic assessment of macrovesicular steatosis in liver allograft biopsies by smartphone add ‐on lenses

Abstract Light microscopy is an essential tool in histological examination of tissue samples. However, the required equipment for a correct and rapid diagnosis is sometimes unavailable. Smartphones and mobile phone networks are widespread, and could be used for diagnostic imaging and telemedicine. Macrovesicular steatosis (MS) is a major risk factor for liver graft failure, and is only assessable by microscopic examination of a frozen tissue section. The aim of this study was to compare the microscopic assessment of MS in liver allograft biopsies by a smartphone with eyepiece adaptor (BLIPS device) to standard light microscopy. Forty liver graft biopsies were evaluated in transmitted light, using an Iphone 5s and 4 different mini‐objective, add‐on lenses. A significant correlation was reported between the two different approaches for graft MS assessment (Spearman's correlation coefficient: rs = 0.946; p < .001). Smartphone with eyepiece adaptor had similar discriminatory power to identify MS in liver grafts than standard light microscopy. Based on these findings, a smartphone integrated with a low‐cost eyepiece adaptor can achieve adequate accuracy in the assessment of MS in liver graft, and could be used as an alternative to standard light microscope when unavailable. MS is only assessable by microscopic examination of a tissue section. We found, in a series of liver biopsies, similar performances for MS assessment by a smartphone with eyepiece adaptor (BL...
Source: Microscopy Research and Technique - Category: Laboratory Medicine Authors: Tags: RESEARCH ARTICLE Source Type: research