Digital Pathology Scanner Market By Product Type (Software, Device (Scanners and Slide Management System), and Storage System), By Type (Human Pathology and Veterinary Pathology), By Application (Academic Research, Drug Discovery & Development, and Disease Diagnosis (Cancer Cell Detection and Others)), By End-use (Hospitals, Diagnostic Labs, Biotech & Pharma Companies, and Academic & Research Institutes), Region and Companies – Industry Segment Outlook, Market Assessment, Competition Scenario, Trends and Forecast 2024-2033

Report Overview

The Global Digital Pathology Scanner Market size is expected to be worth around US$ 2.3 Billion by 2033, from US$ 1 Billion in 2023, growing at a CAGR of 8.8% during the forecast period from 2024 to 2033.

Rising demand for more efficient diagnostic tools is driving the growth of the digital pathology scanner market, transforming how pathologists analyze tissue samples. These scanners enable faster, more accurate diagnoses and significantly streamline workflows, making them essential in cancer diagnostics, drug development, and academic research.

In January 2022, Inform Diagnostics introduced FullFocus, a digital pathology viewer developed by Paige, which uses AI tools to enhance workflow efficiency and speed up results. Similarly, in March 2023, Ibex Medical Analytics secured a contract with PathLAKE to deploy AI-enabled cancer diagnostics across 25 NHS hospitals, showcasing the increasing role of AI in supporting pathology services.

In November 2022, the University Medical Center Utrecht partnered with Paige to integrate AI applications into clinical use and conduct a health economics study to assess the cost-effectiveness of these technologies. Additionally, in August 2021, Xybion Corp. launched Pristima XD Digital Pathology to improve lab throughput and optimize processes.

Opportunities in this market include the expansion of AI-driven pathology tools, telepathology for remote diagnostics, and seamless integration with electronic health records (EHRs). Emerging trends such as whole slide imaging and cloud-based data sharing are pushing the market toward greater innovation, improving efficiency and patient outcomes.

Key Takeaways

• In 2023, the market for digital pathology scanner generated a revenue of US$ 1.0 billion, with a CAGR of 8.8%, and is expected to reach US$ 2.3 billion by the year 2033.
• The product type segment is divided into software, device, and storage system, with device taking the lead in 2023 with a market share of 52.6%.
• Considering type, the market is divided into human pathology and veterinary pathology. Among these, human pathology held a significant share of 67.3%.
• Furthermore, concerning the application segment, the market is segregated into academic research, drug discovery & development, and disease diagnosis. The academic research sector stands out as the dominant player, holding the largest revenue share of 7% in the digital pathology scanner market.
• The end-use segment is segregated into hospitals, diagnostic labs, biotech & pharma companies, and academic & research institutes, with the hospitals segment leading the market, holding a revenue share of 46.8%.
• North America led the market by securing a market share of 40.2% in 2023.

Product Type Analysis

The device segment led in 2023, claiming a market share of 52.6% owing to the increasing adoption of advanced scanning technologies for precise and efficient pathology analysis. Hospitals, diagnostic centers, and research institutions are likely to invest in high-resolution scanners that can capture detailed images of tissue samples, enhancing diagnostic accuracy.

The rising demand for automation in pathology labs to reduce human error and improve workflow efficiency is expected to support this trend. Additionally, advancements in imaging technology, such as the integration of artificial intelligence for image analysis, are projected to further boost the adoption of devices in this segment.

Type Analysis

The human pathology held a significant share of 67.3% due to the rising prevalence of chronic diseases and the increasing demand for early and accurate diagnoses. The need for efficient pathology services in cancer detection and other diseases is likely to drive demand for digital pathology systems in hospitals and laboratories.

Additionally, advancements in personalized medicine and the growing focus on molecular diagnostics are expected to further propel the use of digital scanners in human pathology. The shift towards telepathology, enabling remote diagnosis and consultations, is also anticipated to contribute to the growth of this segment.

Application Analysis

The academic research segment had a tremendous growth rate, with a revenue share of 40.7% owing to increasing investments in biomedical research and the need for advanced tools for studying disease pathology. Universities and research institutions are likely to adopt digital pathology scanners to support high-throughput research in areas such as cancer, genetics, and histopathology.

The growing focus on precision medicine and the integration of digital pathology in translational research are anticipated to further drive demand. Additionally, collaborations between academic researchers and pharmaceutical companies for drug discovery and development are projected to support the expansion of this segment.

End-use Analysis

The hospitals segment grew at a substantial rate, generating a revenue portion of 46.8% due to the increasing demand for improved diagnostic tools and workflow efficiency in clinical settings. Hospitals are expected to adopt digital pathology scanners to enhance the accuracy and speed of tissue analysis, particularly for cancer diagnosis and other critical conditions.

The integration of digital pathology with hospital information systems and electronic medical records is likely to streamline pathology services, further supporting this trend. Additionally, the rising focus on telemedicine and remote diagnostics is projected to increase the adoption of digital pathology systems in hospital environments.

Key Market Segments

By Product Type

• Software
• Device
  • Scanners
  • Slide Management System
• Storage System

By Type

• Human Pathology
• Veterinary Pathology

By Application

• Academic Research
• Drug Discovery & Development
• Disease Diagnosis
  • Cancer Cell Detection
  • Others

By End-use

• Hospitals
• Diagnostic Labs
• Biotech & Pharma Companies
• Academic & Research Institutes

Drivers

Rising Availability Of Digital Pathology Solutions

Rising availability of digital pathology solutions is expected to drive the growth of the digital pathology scanner market. With advancements in technology, healthcare facilities increasingly adopt comprehensive digital platforms to streamline pathology workflows. In October 2023, Pramana and Gestalt introduced an integrated AI-powered platform that combines digital pathology, AI, image analysis, and DICOM standards into a single, streamlined solution.

This integration enhances the efficiency of pathology labs by automating image analysis and improving diagnostic accuracy. As more healthcare providers seek to transition from traditional to digital pathology systems, the demand for advanced digital pathology scanners is anticipated to increase. These solutions allow for faster and more accurate diagnosis, enhancing patient outcomes and driving market growth.

Restraints

Growing Lack Of Proper Workflow Integration

Growing challenges with workflow integration are anticipated to hamper the growth of the digital pathology scanner market. Many healthcare facilities struggle to seamlessly integrate digital pathology scanners into their existing laboratory information systems and electronic health records, which leads to inefficiencies. Without proper integration, laboratories face difficulties in data management, image retrieval, and communication between departments.

These inefficiencies can slow down diagnosis times and negate the potential benefits of using digital pathology scanners. Additionally, the lack of interoperability between different digital systems further complicates the integration process, restraining the market’s expansion. As long as workflow integration remains a challenge, the adoption of digital pathology scanners will be limited, particularly in smaller healthcare settings.

Opportunities

Increasing Integration Of Artificial Intelligence

Growing integration of artificial intelligence (AI) presents a significant opportunity for the digital pathology scanner market. AI enhances the capabilities of digital pathology by automating complex image analysis, improving diagnostic accuracy, and reducing the workload for pathologists. In August 2023, PathAI introduced the AISight Digital Pathology Image Management System, a cloud-based platform designed to streamline digital pathology workflows.

This system integrates advanced AI applications, offering tools for case management, image viewing, and seamless AI-driven analysis. As more healthcare providers adopt AI-powered platforms, the use of digital pathology scanners is projected to rise. The ability to incorporate AI into pathology workflows not only improves efficiency but also opens new possibilities for personalized medicine, further driving market growth.

Impact of Macroeconomic / Geopolitical Factors

Macroeconomic conditions and geopolitical factors have a notable influence on the digital pathology scanner market. Rising inflation and increased production costs raise the price of essential components, which may impact the affordability of advanced scanning technologies. Economic downturns in key regions reduce healthcare budgets, potentially slowing the adoption of digital pathology solutions.

Additionally, geopolitical tensions, such as trade disputes and supply chain disruptions, complicate the global distribution of these devices. On the positive side, increasing government investment in healthcare technology, driven by the need for efficient diagnostic tools, supports market growth. As more countries recognize the value of digital pathology in improving healthcare outcomes, the demand for these scanners is expected to rise, driven by technological advancements and healthcare digitization.

Trends

Rising Collaborations and Partnerships

Rising collaborations and partnerships are projected to drive growth in the digital pathology scanner market. In April 2022, PreciseDx partnered with The Michael J. Fox Foundation to introduce AI-enabled digital pathology technology aimed at diagnosing Parkinson’s disease before severe symptoms emerge.

Such collaborations between tech companies and healthcare organizations highlight a growing trend of leveraging cutting-edge technology for improved diagnostics. Increasing partnerships are anticipated to accelerate innovation, enhance product development, and improve the scalability of digital pathology solutions.

By working together, organizations can combine expertise to tackle complex diseases, enhancing the accuracy and efficiency of pathology. As collaborations continue to expand, the market is likely to see significant advancements, benefiting from the collective efforts of key players.

Regional Analysis

North America is leading the Digital Pathology Scanner Market

North America dominated the market with the highest revenue share of 40.2% owing to advancements in medical imaging technology and the increasing adoption of digital solutions in pathology labs. The need for more efficient diagnostic tools in cancer research, telepathology, and routine lab workflows spurred demand for digital pathology scanners across the region.

A key development was CellaVision’s introduction of the DIFF-Line system at the AACC Convention in Chicago in July 2022, specifically designed for low-volume hematology labs. This workflow system, which includes the CellaVision DC-1, RAL SmearBox, and RAL StainBox, significantly improved the smearing, staining, and analysis of peripheral blood smears, streamlining hematology diagnostics in smaller labs.

Additionally, the growing trend toward integrating artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning in pathology further bolstered the market as healthcare providers sought more precise, automated diagnostic tools.

The Asia Pacific region is expected to experience the highest CAGR during the forecast period

Asia Pacific is expected to grow with the fastest CAGR owing to rising healthcare investments and the growing need for advanced diagnostic solutions. In February 2023, Fujifilm acquired the global digital pathology business of Inspirata, including its cutting-edge Dynamyx digital pathology system. This acquisition is anticipated to enhance Fujifilm’s presence in the region, expanding the adoption of digital pathology systems across hospitals and research institutions.

The increasing burden of cancer and chronic diseases in countries like China, Japan, and India is likely to propel the demand for faster, more accurate diagnostic tools. Additionally, government initiatives aimed at modernizing healthcare infrastructure and fostering innovation in medical technologies are expected to drive further growth in the digital pathology market across Asia Pacific.

Key Regions and Countries

North America

• US
• Canada

Europe

• Germany
• France
• The UK
• Spain
• Italy
• Russia
• Netherland
• Rest of Europe

Asia Pacific

• China
• Japan
• South Korea
• India
• Australia
• New Zealand
• Singapore
• Thailand
• Vietnam
• Rest of APAC

Latin America

• Brazil
• Mexico
• Rest of Latin America

Middle East & Africa

• South Africa
• Saudi Arabia
• UAE
• Rest of MEA

Key Players Analysis

The major players in the digital pathology scanner market are actively engaged in the development and introduction of innovative products, as well as implementing strategic initiatives aimed at enhancing their competitive positioning. Key players in the digital pathology scanner market focus on enhancing image quality and processing speed to meet the growing demand for accurate diagnostics.

They invest in artificial intelligence and machine learning technologies to develop advanced analysis tools that aid pathologists in making quicker, data-driven decisions. Collaborating with hospitals and research institutions allows them to integrate their solutions into existing healthcare systems.

Companies also expand their global reach by targeting emerging markets and offering scalable solutions for diverse laboratory needs. Additionally, they prioritize obtaining regulatory approvals to ensure compliance and build trust in their innovative products.

Top Key Players in the Digital Pathology Scanner Market

• Visiopharm A/S
• Qritive
• Mikroscan Technologies, Inc.
• Inspirata, Inc.
• Huron Technologies International Inc.
• Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd.
• ContextVision AB
• CellaVision

Recent Developments

• In March 2023: Qritive collaborated with Corista to integrate AI using Corista’s DP3, a DICOM-compliant pathology software, into digital pathology workflows. This initiative is highly relevant to the growth of the digital pathology scanner market as it enhances the efficiency of diagnostic processes by leveraging AI to provide faster, more accurate pathology results, which can improve patient care and reduce laboratory costs.
• In June 2022: F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd. received CE marking for its VENTANA DP 600 slide scanner, a next-generation, high-capacity digital pathology scanner. The VENTANA DP 600 generates high-resolution digital images of stained tissue samples, aiding in cancer diagnosis and treatment planning. This development is crucial to the digital pathology scanner market, as it offers advanced tools for improving diagnostic accuracy and streamlining workflows in pathology labs, thus driving market growth.

Report Scope