Papanicolaou stain has also been used to stain vaginal cytology samples, especially in humans as a screening procedure for cervical cancer (i.e., Pap smear or test). This stain is multichromatic involving the use of 5 different dyes and requires a wet fixation of the sample before staining.
If there is copious vaginal discharge: blot with large cotton swab (do not rub). Avoid touching the cervical os directly as this may remove the upper thin layer of cells needed for adequate exam. Pap testing should be done before other swabs or cultures are taken. Pap testing: Sample both ectocervical and endocervical cells:
Hologic is the leader in Pap and human papillomavirus (HPV) testing. The ThinPrep Pap test helps healthcare providers and laboratory professionals detect the presence of abnormal cervical cells, and the Aptima HPV assays identify high-risk HPV mRNA that is indicative of the HPV infections most likely to lead to cervical disease. 1-3.
The Papanicolaou test, also known as the Pap test or the Pap smear, was developed in the 1940s by Georgios Papanikolaou. It involves exfoliating cells from the transformation zone of the cervix to enable examination of these cells microscopically for detection of cancerous or precancerous lesions. An image depicting a Pap smear can be seen
If the test code you are looking for is not included in the emailed file and you are a self-pay patient, you can call 1.800.758.5016 Monday - Thursday, 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM and Friday, 8:30 AM – 4:00 PM Eastern Standard Time (EST) for assistance. To receive accurate pricing information, it is necessary to provide the correct service code from
Canada is now moving away from using Pap smears to screen for cervical cancer screening in favour of HPV, which is more effective and can be done at home. The swab being used in B.C. looks
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blood on pap smear swab
