Large-format histology: promoting the popularity and benefits of technology

Large-format, or Supa Mega, tissue processing permits bigger pieces of tissue to be processed using a combination of standard processing equipment and new, larger consumables. The larger tissue sections translate to more tissue being present on each slide presented to a pathologist. This allows pathologists to see more tissue at once and reduces the need for mental reassembly of tumours.

Large-format tissue processing technology continues to grow in popularity as more countries become aware of the important patient benefits and cost-saving opportunities which the appropriate use of larger consumables can bring. While many laboratories around the UK are already converted to the use of large-format pathology consumables, the uptake is less pronounced in other countries. For example, European laboratories have widespread use, with user concentrations appearing in Scandinavia, whereas the USA has been slower to embrace the advantages this new technique provides.

Importantly, leading cancer diagnostic centres in the USA are beginning to acknowledge the benefits of this equipment and their influence is expected to promote the technology to other laboratories in North America.