Imogen Fitt from Signify Research joins us for her predictions for Digital Pathology in 2025.
Trend 1 – Genomics and Digital Pathology Markets Becoming Inextricably Linked
Genomics and digital pathology are converging as distinct yet complementary fields. Increasingly, vendors are developing solutions that bridge the gap between these areas—for example, algorithms are being commercialized to extract genomic biomarkers directly from digital pathology images. Pharmaceutical companies are also collaborating with diagnostic and imaging firms, integrating multi-modal data from whole slide images to create digital companion diagnostics. Furthermore, strategic partnerships and investments (e.g., between molecular diagnostics firms and digital pathology vendors) are helping to merge the two fields. This integration not only enhances personalized medicine by providing a more comprehensive view of patient physiology but also improves laboratory workflows and pre-screening processes. Regions like Northern Europe have already started incorporating genomic data into digital pathology information management systems, demonstrating the growing market demand for such integration.
Trend 2 – Generative AI Boosting Lab Productivity
Generative AI (GenAI) is beginning to reshape lab operations by enhancing productivity and efficiency. Health tech and life sciences companies are actively exploring GenAI applications to automate report generation, consolidate knowledge, and streamline audit and quality control processes. Early initiatives from leading institutions like the Mayo Clinic and companies such as Sanofi illustrate the experimental use of GenAI in laboratory settings, particularly within digital pathology image analysis. Although the commercial impact of GenAI remains in its early stages, its potential to reduce manual tasks and enhance operational workflows is becoming increasingly recognized, indicating that GenAI will soon play a vital role in laboratory productivity improvements.
Trend 3 – Continued Consolidation in the Marketplace
The healthcare technology market is witnessing ongoing consolidation as vendors seek to strengthen their market positions by acquiring complementary businesses. This trend is driven by the need to expand capabilities and streamline product offerings, allowing companies to better meet the evolving demands of the industry. Such acquisitions enable vendors to combine expertise, reduce redundancies, and create more integrated solutions, thereby accelerating innovation and market penetration.
Trend 4 – Digital Pathology’s Clinical Growth Driven by Adjacent Stakeholders and Vendor Types
Although clinical adoption of digital pathology is still emerging, growth is being propelled by stakeholders from adjacent markets. BigTech companies—such as AWS, Microsoft, Google, and Dell—are entering the space, drawn by the revenue potential of whole slide image storage and real-world data management. Pharmaceutical firms are strategizing to secure reimbursement for digital companion diagnostics and exploring deployment models that integrate low-throughput pathology scanners in clinical settings. Additionally, radiology vendors are advocating for standardization efforts (like DICOM and Vendor Neutral Archives), which facilitate the integration of digital pathology systems with broader enterprise imaging platforms. New players in microscopy, laboratory information management systems (LIMS), teleradiology, and image exchange further underscore the expansive growth trajectory of digital pathology.
Overall, while challenges remain, these four trends illustrate a dynamic and transformative future for healthcare, promising significant advancements in patient care, research, and operational efficiency.