Cytological imaging systems and methods

An automated method of reviewing a specimen, the method comprising the steps of:

• (a) loading the specimen in an optical instrument;
• (b) locating a first datum mark on the specimen;
• (c) locating a second datum mark on the specimen;
• (d) establishing a coordinate system based, at least in part, on the first and second datum marks;
• (e) positioning the specimen to present a first field of interest;
• (f) moving to a next field of interest;
• and
• (g) repeating step (f) until a predetermined number of fields of interest are presented.

A slide holder assembly comprising:

• a base;
• a first platform movably disposed on the base;
• a second platform disposed on the first platform and including a slide receiving area;
• a slide positioning member operatively connected to the second platform;
• and
• a mechanism disposed on the base for actuating the slide positioning member.