Topic Overview
Liquid-based methods for collecting cervical cells and preparing them
for laboratory evaluation are available.
A sample of cervical cells is collected during a
Pap test. Then the cells are rinsed in a liquid
vial (instead of being smeared on slides). The vials are taken to the laboratory,
and a thin layer of the specimen is put on slides for microscopic examination.
Only a small portion of the sample is used for the slide, so the remainder of
the cell sample can be used for any further testing, such as a
human papillomavirus (HPV) test.
These methods can produce
false-positive results just like standard Pap tests.
These methods cost more than standard Pap testing.
Credits
ByHealthwise Staff
Primary Medical ReviewerSarah Marshall, MD - Family Medicine
Specialist Medical ReviewerKevin C. Kiley, MD - Obstetrics and Gynecology