Arizona-based diagnostic laboratory Sonora Quest Laboratories has announced it will incorporate the first and only FDA-cleared digital cytology system to support cervical cancer screenings. 

The technology is now available at select Sonora Quest laboratory locations, according to a press release.

Designed to improve cancer cell detection and analysis, digital cytology uses artificial intelligence to help interpret patient cases. 

Collection is performed using the ThinPrep Pap test, a liquid-based cervical cytology test, to ensure cells are adequately preserved. Slides containing collected cells are fed through a high-capacity slide scanner, which produces high-quality, in-focus images for quick and thorough image analysis by an artificial intelligence algorithm, the release explained.

A detailed image of the cells is saved and can be accessed anytime for further interpretation. In addition, the image can be shared digitally with specialists and other physicians in Sonora Quest’s network of trained users.

Dr. Regina Van Buren, laboratory medical director at Sonora Quest, said in the release that they are constantly searching for ways to improve cancer diagnostics, and digital cytology with AI support provides more accurate disease detection.

“Analyzing patient cells using a digital image rather than a microscope not only improves accuracy but is also much more efficient in screening cervical cells,” Van Buren said. 

The accuracy of cell interpretation using digital imagery helps increase high-grade disease detection by 7.5% versus manual microscopic review. 

Other benefits of digital cytology include no transport of slides needed, a reduced number of broken or lost slides, remote access for physicians, and an ordered storage system for all images that assists in efficient workflow and processing.

The digital cytology technology is made available through Hologic, a breakthrough diagnostic and medical imaging solutions company focused on women’s health.

Jennifer Schneiders, president of diagnostic solutions at Hologic, said in the release that cervical cancer screenings are a critical part of preventative care and women’s health overall. 

“Genius Digital Diagnostics combines deep-learning-based AI with advanced imaging technology to help identify precancerous lesions and cervical cancer cells,” Schneiders said. “The system delivers enhanced diagnostic detection for cytologists and pathologists, supporting the future of cytology and the most comprehensive method of cervical cancer screening for providers and patients.”

Sonora Quest now offers Hologic digital cytology at its Papago lab location, and additional sites will become available in April. 

For more, visit www.hologic.com.