Computer-Aided Microscopy Facilitates Autoimmune Disease Diagnostics

A new software and immunofluorescence microscope system that supports automated imaging and interpretation for clinical diagnostics now provides specialized software for autoimmune disease identification, including analysis of anti-nuclear antibodies (ANA) and anti-neutrophil cytoplasm antibodies (ANCA).

The EUROPattern system from EuroImmun AG (Luebeck, Germany) provides automated high-speed acquisition, archiving and interpretation of immunofluorescence images. The specialized microscope has been tailored to requirements of immunofluorescence. Next to the high-precision optical system it has a controlled LED, which maintains a constant light flux, ensuring highly reproducible results. The exceptionally long life span (over 50,000 hours) and low power consumption of the cLED provide cost-effectiveness. The microscope can process up to 500 analyses in succession, correctly identifying the slides by means of matrix codes.

The EUROPattern system includes powerful pattern recognition software that identifies and classifies all ANA, anti-cytoplasmic antibodies and ANCA, even if more than one antibody is present. The system also evaluates anti-dsDNA antibodies on Crithidia luciliae as well as transfected cell substrates. Results are viewed at the PC screen, and can be checked retrospectively at the microscope if necessary. Images from further substrates such as liver, kidney, and stomach can be recorded and archived.

The EUROPattern package is rounded off by the laboratory management system EUROLabOffice to streamline daily routine by organizing workflow and documenting all data and processes. The software consolidates all results into one report per patient and even compares new findings with previous records. Different user levels provide a hierarchical review of results, thus increasing security.

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