Search results
Results from the WOW.Com Content Network
Currently, the pap smear — in which cells taken from the cervix are examined by a doctor “for cervical cancer or cell changes,” per the National Cancer Institute — is the recommended ...
Normal cervical cells in a Pap smear. In the conventional Pap smear, the collected cells are smeared on a microscope slide, and a fixative is applied. The slide is evaluated in a pathology lab to identify cellular abnormalities. Accuracy of conventional cytology report: [10] sensitivity: 55% to 88%; specificity: 71% to 94%
According to Dr. Harrison, “Women should stop having cervical cancer screening after age 65 if they do not have a history of abnormal cervical cells or cervical cancer, and they have had either ...
It's an important screening tool for cervical cancer. For premium support please call: 800-290-4726 more ways to reach us
The Papanicolaou test (abbreviated as Pap test, also known as Pap smear (AE), [1] cervical smear (BE), cervical screening (BE), [2] or smear test (BE)) is a method of cervical screening used to detect potentially precancerous and cancerous processes in the cervix (opening of the uterus or womb) or, more rarely, anus (in both men and women). [3]
The procedure begins by gently scraping or sampling the cells of the cervix using a special spatula, brush or swab. Some women experience temporary bleeding from this procedure. The scrapings are placed on a slide, covered with a fixative for later examination under a microscope to determine if they are normal or abnormal. [ 19 ]
In a pap smear, a gynecologist uses a speculum to open the walls of the vagina, and then uses an instrument to collect cells from the cervix. As the Mayo Clinic notes, it “may feel uncomfortable.
Pap smear results may be reported using the Bethesda system (see above). The sensitivity and specificity of this test were variable in a systematic review looking at accuracy of the test. An abnormal Pap smear result may lead to a recommendation for colposcopy of the cervix, an in office procedure during which the cervix is examined under ...