Lightweight WSI tile extraction and preprocessing. Use for basic slide processing, tissue detection, tile extraction, and stain normalization for H&E images. Best for simple pipelines, dataset preparation, and quick t…
---
name: histolab
description: Lightweight WSI tile extraction and preprocessing. Use for basic slide processing, tissue detection, tile extraction, and stain normalization for H&E images. Best for simple pipelines, dataset preparation, and quick tile-based analysis. For advanced spatial proteomics, multiplexed imaging, or deep learning pipelines use pathml.
license: Apache-2.0 license
compatibility: Requires Python 3.8–3.11 (histolab 0.7.0), OpenSlide system libraries, and Linux or macOS. Sample data via histolab.data requires pooch.
metadata: {"version": "1.1", "skill-author": "K-Dense Inc."}
---
# Histolab
## Overview
Histolab is a Python library for processing whole slide images (WSI) in digital pathology. It automates tissue detection, extracts informative tiles from gigapixel images, and prepares datasets for deep learning pipelines. The library handles multiple WSI formats, implements sophisticated tissue segmentation, and provides flexible tile extraction strategies.
## Installation
Install OpenSlide system libraries first ([OpenSlide download](https://openslide.org/download/)), then install histolab:
```bash
uv pip install histolab
```
For built-in TCGA sample slides via `histolab.data`, also install pooch:
```bash… load the full skill through Skill Me