Cytology (PAP Smear) Genital Female Liquid Based Test

What is the Pap Smear test?

Pap Smear Test means the Papanicolaou test. It is a test to detect potentially precancerous and cancerous processes in the cervix or colon. A Pap smear test can also sometimes detect conditions like vaginal infection or inflammation. However, it does not detect ovarian cancer. The Pap smear involves collecting cells from the cervix and testing them under the microscope.

When is the Pap Smear Test done?

A doctor may recommend this Test

• When he suspects cervical cancer
• If a patient has discharge from the cervix.
• The Pap smear test should be combined with a test for human papillomavirus (HPV)
• In case the patient has a common sexually transmitted infection.

What are the components of the PAP Smear Test?

The Pap smear test or cytology pap smear test is done by inserting a speculum in the vagina and scraping some cells using a small brush. The swab is then stored in a tube or a jar. The material is then mounted on the slide and is checked under a microscope to look for changes. The cytology test can be done alone or sometimes is recommended along with a test for human papillomavirus (HPV), one of the commonest causes of sexually transmitted infection that can cause cervical cancer. It is recommended for women between 21 to 65 years of age.

What is the usual range of the Pap Smear Test?

• Normal or negative: This means that there are no signs of disease.
• Unsatisfactory: No normal or abnormal cells could not be detected. The Test is then performed again.
• Abnormal Or positive: This indicates that the cell has shown changes and needs further evaluation

What are the prerequisites for the Pap Smear test?

It is a sample from the vagina, so one needs to follow these instructions

• Avoid pap smear tests during periods
• Avoid vaginal washing before the Test
• Do not have vaginal sex before the pap smear test.
• The Test is not harmful and does not cause any pain
• A patient may feel slight discomfort after the Test.
• It takes 15 to 20 minutes for the Test to complete
• The result is expected between 3-5 Days.