Search results
Results from the WOW.Com Content Network
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]
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%
Peter Dazeley/Getty Images If you can’t remember when you had your last pap smear, there’s a chance you might be due for another. So how often should you get a pap smear, exactly? We asked Dr ...
The pelvic exam begins with a discussion as described above, and an explanation of the procedure. The patient is asked to put on an examination gown, get on the examination table, and lie on her back with her feet in footrests. [3] Sliding down toward the end of the table is the best position for the clinician to do a visual examination. [18]
The two screening methods available are the Pap smear and testing for HPV. CIN is usually discovered by a screening test, the Pap smear. The purpose of this test is to detect potentially precancerous changes through random sampling of the transformation zone. Pap smear results may be reported using the Bethesda system (see above).
However, Medicare covers a PAP smear once every 2 years for most people. Glossary of Medicare terms We may use a few terms in this article that can be helpful to understand when selecting the best ...
Depending on patient's age or Pap smear result, HPV testing may also be performed. Sexually transmitted infection screening - Depending on age and risk factors, clinicians may recommend gonorrhea or chlamydia testing at the time of the well-woman exam. This sample can be collected via a swab of the cervix or vagina.