Virtual microscopy is based on digitizing microscope specimens, transmittance over computer networks and viewing the produced virtual slides on computer screens. The virtual microscope aims to present the users the precaptured image data of histological samples as if they were using a real microscope in real time. To achieve these objectives, the virtual microsope has the capability to up- and download virtual slides, navigate to any point within the specimens, change magnifications and to adjust various image parameters. The VM allows time and location independent viewing of images by a large numbers of people; this makes the slides available to everyone.
Central objectives of the virtual microscope are supplementation and extension of the contents of several histology courses and plenary lectures in the various modules of the Medical University of Vienna curriculum. The hands-on experience increase the sustainability and provide the necessary knowledge and skills for the subsequent courses in pathological histology.