In a groundbreaking development, artificial intelligence (AI) is proving to be a powerful ally in the battle against prostate cancer. The Bioptic Laboratory in Pilsen, Czech Republic, has become a pioneer in utilizing this technology to save lives.
As the first facility in the Czech Republic and one of the few in Europe, this private laboratory has integrated AI into its prostate tissue analysis process. The AI system rapidly identifies areas of concern, allowing doctors to focus their attention more efficiently. This breakthrough is crucial for confirming cancer diagnoses and determining subsequent treatment plans.
Dr. Robert Slunečko, a physician from the biopsy and immunohistochemistry department at the Pilsen Bioptic Laboratory, reports that they now evaluate all prostate samples using AI. With an annual influx of about 160,000 samples, including roughly 2,000 prostate-specific ones, this technology is making a significant impact.
The AI’s tireless nature gives it a distinct advantage over human pathologists. Unlike human eyes, which can fatigue after hours of microscope work, AI consistently delivers accurate results. This reliability helps eliminate cases of under or over-treatment, ensuring patients receive the most appropriate care.
While the transition from microscopes to computer screens requires some adjustment for medical professionals, Dr. Slunečko believes it’s only a matter of time before this becomes the new norm. The AI not only enhances accuracy but also significantly speeds up the evaluation process, potentially saving crucial time in complex cases.
Despite these advancements, AI is not expected to replace laboratory workers entirely in the near future. The high cost of these systems makes them inaccessible to smaller laboratories. However, as technology progresses and becomes more affordable, we can anticipate wider adoption, particularly in university hospitals.