[Telepathology at presence and in the future].

Telepathology is the performance of pathology at distance using available telecommunication links such as optic fiber, communication satellite, and integrated services digitized network (ISDN). The main applications of telepathology are to provide frozen section service, consultation between pathologists at a distance, and conducting conferences using displays. These activities are required due to the shortage and disproportional distribution of pathologists. Telepathology for frozen section service is fairly effective in providing indications for surgical procedures by discriminating malignant tumor from benign tumor, confirming metastasis to distant organs or lymph nodes, and decisions regarding the surgical margin. However, there are several public insurance problems in the spread and practice of telepathology. To solve these problems, not only from a medical approach but also from the development of mechanical engineering, economic and legal issues must be considered.