Presented By: Stephanie Richardson, Baylor College of Medicine
Co-Authors: Mostafa Belghasem, Baylor College of Medicine
Steve Charles, Baylor College of Medicine

Purpose
Medical students are expected to have a good ability to interpret histopathological images. This goal is found to be very difficult by many students and can be a time-consuming task. It is even more challenging when a new image is encountered and the students are unable to transfer what they learned in a prior visual setting to the new one, despite knowing what to look for. Therefore, new strategies for improving pathology learning efficiency are needed. The goal of this work is to enhance student's descriptive histopathology skills; and enhance their ability to interpret pathology images and formulate differential diagnoses. 

Methods
Using image editing and processing software, multiple plain layers are added to the high-quality pathology image (layer-0). Each additional plain layer is converted to a smart object and segmentally made transparent to allow certain underlaying key morphological features to be apparent with less distraction from the rest of pathology section. This approach still allows the learner to visualize the section with the key pathology being prominent through the transparent segment of the new layer. These layers can be switched on-and-off to train the learner to recognize the different features and patterns of the pathological lesion through faded-style transitions. Ultimately, the pathology image (layer-0) is converted into an annotated animation and illustration to simplify the pathological changes in a semi-fictional manner. All these layers are eventually exported to PowerPoint compatible format that allows for further adjustments. 

Results 
This approach was evaluated using in-session surveys and post-session surveys. In addition, mandatory formative assessment were used. Student evaluations indicated a very favorable response to this approach of pathology teaching and has significantly increased their confidence in interpreting histopathology images. The vast majority of students (98%) expressed a desire to have these exercises applied for other organ systems and courses.