The strategic collaboration aims to offer an AI algorithm to guide cytologists and pathologists to efficiently and effectively identify evidence of cervical cancer and precancer using whole-slide imaging.
Franklin Lakes, New Jersey-based BD said in a news release that the agreement allows it to deliver a complete solution to reduce the potential for human error and enable greater throughput. This helps labs achieve results with greater standardization, reproducibility and efficiency from a Pap test.
Traditional Pap tests take a sample from a patient and place it on a glass slide evaluated using a microscope. A digital cervical cytology system enables the scanning of the samples. Then comes a review on a computer monitor in a lab or remote location. Additionally, the AI algorithm helps prioritize and present clinically relevant cells for visual evaluation.
Techcyte’s platform has compatibility with common liquid-based cytology (LBC) preparations. That includes the BD SurePath liquid-based Pap test vial. Techcyte’s CEO Ben Cahoon said the system helps with efficient review and better decision-making.
“There is a shortage of healthcare laboratory technicians, and the problem is particularly acute in the area of cytology. This solution helps solve for the dearth of expert cytologists by leveraging new AI-based digital technology to make the testing process efficient and bring the traditional Pap test into the 21st century,” ,” said Nikos Pavlidis, acting president of Diagnostic Solutions at BD.