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Papnicolau Test |
Details
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In papanicolaou (PAP) test, the gynecologist scrapes cells from the cervix surface by using a small wooden applicator, much like a depressor of tongue. After that, a small bristle brush may be used to take a cell sample from the cervix canal. Such procedure may be felt but is not painful. The cells removed with a wooden applicator or brush are put on a glass slide, sprayed with preservatives and sent to the laboratory, where they are tested under a microscope to check if cervical cancer is present. The pap test is the best technique for detecting cancer of cervix and such test identifies 80 to 85% of such cancers, even in early stages. The pap test is very accurate if the female does not douche or take vaginal drugs for at least twenty four hours before the examination. Papnicolaou (pap) test generally is advised for females one time a year after the age of 18 or after first intercourse. This procedure takes only a few seconds and is safe.
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| Category |
Medical Procedures > P
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| Related Searches |
pap smear test, abnormal pap test |
| Date Submitted |
25-Jan-2006
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