Digital pathology in Brazil: preliminary findings from a national pilot survey

Abstract Background Digital pathology (DP) has progressed from early telepathology to integrated ecosystems that include whole‑slide imaging (WSI), archiving, collaboration, and computational analysis, with promised gains in workflow, remote consultation, and AI‑assisted diagnosis. In Latin America, adoption has lagged due to cost, connectivity, and integration barriers. Evidence specific to Brazil remains limited. Methods We conducted a descriptive pilot survey (17‑item Google Forms) disseminated via social media (WhatsApp, Instagram, LinkedIn) to practicing pathologists across Brazil (Oct–Nov 2023). The instrument was conceptually aligned with themes from the review “Digital Pathology in Latin America.” Responses were anonymous; only the region question was mandatory. Twenty-two respondents completed the survey (Southeast 22.7%, Northeast 22.7%, South 18.2%, North 18.2%, Center-West 18.2%). Discussion In Brazil, DP adoption remains limited despite optimism about near-term standardization. Cost is the primary barrier, followed by operational feasibility (infrastructure, training), mirroring the Latin-American landscape. To move from basic digitization to AI-enabled transformation, financial models, reimbursement, and market regulation must be addressed alongside technical integration and connectivity.