Automatic Karyotype Analysis

This chapter differs from the majority in this book in that its subject matter is the application of computer image interpretation techniques to the analysis of metaphase chromosome spreads. Were we to follow the prescription of the remainder of the book, we might simply publish the code of a computer program together with a list of suitable equipment. This is not, however, a realistic option. The computer programs in current commercial systems for automated cytogenetics typically consist of approximately 100,000 lines of source code; in the case of automatic metaphase finders, the equipment may include proprietary mechanical or electronic components. Also, the rate of change in the performance and cost of cameras, displays, and computers are such that any list of equipment that is appropriate as we write in mid1991 would most likely be nearing obsolescence by the time the book is published.