Unveiling the future: the impact of artificial intelligence in diagnostic pathology

Abstract Background Artificial Intelligence (AI) is rapidly evolving, presenting both beneficial and challenging implications for society. The critical choice lies in how humanity chooses to harness this technology, particularly in the realm of healthcare diagnostics. This field stands out as a promising area where AI can provide significant assistance, with the potential to transform the diagnostic process into one that is fast, reliable, affordable, repeatable, and accurate. By integrating AI into diagnostic workflows, we can foster evidence-based science in a more efficient manner. All facets of pathological diagnostics can benefit from AI collaboration, which could lead to a transformative future for the industry. Main body This review aims to examine the current advancements of AI in diagnostic applications while offering perspectives on future developments. It covers the fundamental workflows of AI models, highlighting the advantages of unsupervised foundation models in various medical contexts. The discussion explores their utility across disciplines such as histopathology, cytopathology, and hematology, emphasizing their potential to enhance diagnostic accuracy. Additionally, the review addresses existing limitations, challenges faced in implementation, and underscores the ongoing vital role of pathologists in integrating AI into clinical practice. Conclusion The widespread accessibility of data and advanced software tools has significantly propelled and expedited progress in AI research. While the Food and Drug Administration has established regulations to safeguard private information, many researchers persist in developing and training AI models that demonstrate high accuracy. Despite these advancements, challenges remain in deploying fully autonomous AI systems for individual diagnostics. Notably, recent developments in foundation models have shown remarkable potential, surpassing traditional supervised models in diagnosing multiple cancer types, indicating a promising trajectory toward more comprehensive and reliable AI-driven diagnostic solutions in the near future.