We have tried surgical pathologic diagnosis using a still image transmission system. The equipment we used was a medical information network system (Telepathology) developed jointly by Inohara Shokai and NTT. During the 9-month period from April to December in 1995, we performed pathological diagnosis on a total of 63 cases received via this system. The cases included 21 stomach cancers, 13 colorectal cancers, 5 breast tumors, 4 lung tumors, 5 thyroid tumors and 3 ovary tumors. Materials presented for pathologic examination were 44 lymph nodes, 20 stumped sections of the lesions and 13 tumor tissues. The correct diagnosis ratio was as high as 93.7%. Improvement in the specimen-making procedure reduced the time required to arrive at a firm diagnosis. However, the quality of images of low magnification is unsatisfactory. It should also be pointed out that there is much room for improvement in the technical skill and knowledge of the persons concerned. Nevertheless, great expectations could be placed on this system. With progress in data transmissions technology, it will find its use more widely.

Objective: To clarify factors related to emotional instability in spouses of cancer patients receiving palliative chemotherapy. Methods: Semi-structured interviews were conducted with spouses of cancer patients receiving palliative chemotherapy, and the obtained data were qualitatively and inductively analyzed. Results: Through analysis, 9 related factors were identified: “realizing the severity of the situation when receiving an explanation of the pathological condition”, “an unclear prognosis”, “fear of losing any treatments”, “being pressed for treatment-related decision-making”, “increased daily burdens by the care”, “collapse the visions of the family future”, “communication with medical professionals”,“candid dialogues with the patient”, and “relationships with others”. Conclusion: It may be important for nurses to help families of cancer patients realistically manage their situation without excessive confusion, even when they experience emotional instability, and spend meaningful time with patients as an outcome of treatment, with an understanding of these related factors on such emotional instability.