Philips and Definiens, a Germany-based image analysis company, have signed a memorandum of understanding that will see them develop and market clinical decision support systems for digital pathology.
Philips, which is best known for its medical imaging systems, has called on Definiens to provide and develop more accurate and robust image analysis applications.
Bob van Gemen, general manager of Philips Digital Pathology, said: “The memorandum of understanding with Definiens underpins Philips’ objective of offering a full suite of image analysis tools that can be used in combination with mainstream histological staining techniques and procedures in pathology.
“I am convinced that the combined knowledge of Philips and Definiens will result in meaningful innovations in pathology to speed up procedures and help pathologists in their decision making.”
The companies’ first project will focus on breast cancer diagnostics in order to detect specific biomarkers.
Pathologists usually examine tissue slices by treating them with stains in order to reveal specific biomarkers of diseases by enhancing digital contrast and then analysing them through a microscope.
Digitisation of the images instead enables the use of more objective diagnosis using quantitative image analysis tools which has the potential to make a diagnosis more quickly and accurately.
Thomas Heydler, chief executive of Definiens, said: “We are very excited about this best-in-class alliance that brings together Philips, a well known leader in medical imaging and image management systems, and Definiens, the world-wide leader in image intelligence.
“This collaboration will play a major role in advancing health intelligence and contribute towards more accurate clinical diagnosis and treatment, which are two key hallmarks in the drive towards affordable and personalised healthcare.”
Links: Philips