X-Balloon: A cloud-based platform for annotation and reinforced deep learning in digital pathology images
This paper introduces X-Balloon, a cloud-based platform designed to streamline annotation workflows and reinforce deep learning models specifically for biopsy or digital pathology image analysis. The platform integrates a modular architecture comprising a Backend, Annotation, and AI Processing module to address inefficiencies in traditional pathology workflows. By leveraging Mask R-CNN for automated segmentation, X-Balloon achieves high precision in identifying pathological features, thereby enhancing diagnostic accuracy. Its browser-based interface enables seamless collaboration among pathologists while reducing annotation effort through a combination of automation and manual refinement. X-Balloon’s open-source availability and customizable architecture make it a valuable tool for advancing the integration of AI into digital pathology.
Authors
- Alexandros T. Tzallas (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-9043-1290)
- Νικόλαος Γιαννακέας (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-0615-783X)
- Ανδρέας Μιλτιάδους (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-0675-9088)
- Odysseas Tsakai
- Markos G. Tsipouras (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6757-1698)
- Panagiotis N. Smyrlis (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-9090-1977)
Institutions
- University of Ioannina (GR)
- University of Western Macedonia (GR)
Publication Details
- Journal
- SoftwareX
- Published
- 2025-07-24
- DOI
- https://doi.org/10.1016/j.softx.2025.102287
- Primary Topic
- AI in cancer detection
- Type
- article
- Field-Weighted Citation Impact
- 0.00
Funders
- European Commission