Development of a low-cost microscope slide scanner for creating digital library of histological slides
TL;DR
A reliable low-cost whole-slide scanner can be locally developed using accessible materials and open-source technology, supporting affordable digital microscopy for medical education and future telepathology applications in resource-limited settings.
Abstract
Background: Glass slide microscopy is essential for histology teaching but is limited by fragility, fading stains, preparation costs, and restricted accessibility. Commercial whole-slide scanners are costly and difficult to maintain in low- and middle-income countries. This study developed and evaluated a low-cost locally fabricated slide scanner for digital microscopy. Methods: This 18-month development project was conducted at Maharajgunj Medical Campus using archived anonymized histology slides. The scanner integrated an Arduino Uno microcontroller, stepper motors, joystick control, 3D-printed brackets, and an eyepiece-mounted digital camera attached to an Olympus CX41 microscope. Automated stage movement enabled sequential overlapping image capture. Validity was assessed by expert subjective comparison with direct microscopy for tissue identification, clarity, color accuracy, and visual discrimination. Scanning time, noise output, and cost were recorded. The images were taken at 150 pixels per inch. Results: On scanning five slides, mean scanning time was 5 minutes 26 seconds per slide. Noise levels ranged from 32–69 dB and were not disturbing. The scanner produced images at resolution of 150 pixels per inch with excellent clarity, good color consistency, and visual discrimination. Total development cost was NPR 200,000. Conclusion: A reliable low-cost whole-slide scanner can be locally developed using accessible materials and open-source technology, supporting affordable digital microscopy for medical education and future telepathology applications in resource-limited settings.