PathOToons: Open-Access Medical Illustrations for Systemic Pathology

2026 PathOToons is an open educational resource designed to enhance medical student learning and long-term retention of pathological diseases through original, concept-driven cartoons. The project is an expanding compilation of visual learning tools that translate complex pathology content into memorable illustrations and animations aligned with medical school curricula and board examination preparation. Each cartoon emphasizes high-yield disease mechanisms, diagnostic features, and clinically relevant associations using visual storytelling, symbolism, and humor. This approach is grounded in principles of visual learning and dual coding, aiming to reduce cognitive load and promote durable memory formation. The resource includes both animated content and downloadable illustrated materials to support varied learning preferences and self-directed study. As a freely accessible and continuously growing platform, PathOToons is designed to evolve alongside learner needs and curricular demands, with the goal of ultimately encompassing pathology across all organ systems. This project demonstrates how creative, learner-centered visual resources can complement traditional medical education while promoting equity, accessibility, and engagement within an open-access framework.