Zoetis Vetscan Imagyst
VETSCAN IMAGYST™ is a first-of-its-kind technology, offering cytology, and fecal diagnostics in a single platform. Using a compact scanner along with artificial intelligence (AI) technology and a network of remote expert clinical pathologists, VETSCAN IMAGYST delivers fast, accurate fecal and cytology results so that you make important treatment decisions sooner. As new applications become available, they will easily be integrated with existing VETSCAN IMAGYST testing capabilities.
How is Imagyst Different From Other Parasitic Detection Methods?
IMAGYST applies a deep-learning object-detection algorithm that automatically learns the most differentiating features between classes of eggs, allowing the algorithm to perceive and distinguish the morphology of parasite eggs from other objects on fecal flotation slides. The IMAGYST deep-learning system is also robust because it can learn to ignore the features that can flaw computer classification.
Why Is An Advanced System Like Imagyst Needed For Fecal Flotation Testing?
Due to the busy nature of veterinary practices and the complexity of microscopic examinations of fecal slides, it’s possible that staff may conduct the analysis incorrectly. In fact, fecal flotation examinations performed in private practice could be missing up to half of infected dogs because of either technician error or inherent limitations to the passive flotation technique.
What Components Are Included With The Imagyst?
The IMAGYST system consists of three components: sample preparation, scanning of the sample by Whole Slide Imaging (WSI) and analysis performed by a cloud-based, deep-learning algorithm that locates, classifies and identifies parasite eggs and cysts found on fecal microscopic slides. The IMAGYST system sample preparation device includes a specialized fecal preparation device that uses centrifugal flotation and includes a transfer loop for easy transfer of the sample to a microscope slide.
Why Was Imagyst Verified?
The verification was performed to evaluate the diagnostic performance of IMAGYST to correctly identify internal parasite eggs and cysts in feces of naturally infected dogs and cats, compared to manual identification by a parasitologist. A secondary objective was to compare the performance of the IMAGYST sample preparation methods to standard reference methods of centrifugal and passive fecal flotation.
Which/How Many Parasitic Eggs Can Imagyst Identify?How Will This Change Over Time?
At this time, IMAGYST can detect: Ancylostoma (hookworm) in dogs and cats,Toxocara (roundworm) in dogs and cats, Trichuris (whipworm) in dogs, Taeniia (tapeworm) in dogs and cats. Cystoisospora (intestinal disease) in dogs and cats, and Giardia in dogs and cats. The deep-learning nature of the IMAGYST algorithms will allow for evolution and increased functionality over time. With more trainings, the algorithm will be able to classify additional parasites.
What Is The Turnaround Time For Results?
The workflow which combined image analysis performed by a deep-learning objective detection algorithm with the specialized fecal sample preparations provided a fecal examination result with images within 15-20 minutes. The sample preparation time using the IMAGYST fecal preparation device is approximately 3.5 minutes, with a 2-minute centrifugal incubation time.
What Benefits Can Imagyst Bring To My Practice?
The IMAGYST system was developed to provide a simple, easy and systematized fecal examination that is less influenced by level of expertise or experience of an examiner. IMAGYST captures and stores images, which allows for easy image recall for trending of patient results. The IMAGYST system can also bring value to customers. Pet owners can see the images on the final report, adding value not typically available with current fecal testing methods. The images can make the results more tangible and provide an opportunity for excellent communication from the veterinarian. This may, in turn, lead to improved medication compliance by pet owners.
What Capabilities Does My Practice Need To Support Imagyst?
A high-speed Internet connection is needed to best experience the benefits of IMAGYST.
The Zoetis Vetscan Imagyst should be released later on this year, more information will follow. If you would like further information regarding this device this is available on the Zoetis website.