Cytological examination of scrapings of the cervix and cervical canal. Cervical analysis - take care of your health Cytological type of smear what
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The study of material obtained from the cervix makes it possible to determine the characteristics of the cellular structure of this anatomical region, identify pathological changes and confirm or refute the alleged diagnosis.
The most common type of cytological analysis in gynecology is the PAP test, or Papanicolaou test. It was developed at the beginning of the twentieth century for the early diagnosis of cervical cancer, and it continues to be used today. There are also the latest methods in this area - ThinPrep, or liquid-based cytology. This technique significantly increases the efficiency of the diagnostic search and allows you to make a timely diagnosis and prescribe effective treatment.
Indications for cytological examination
The main goal of implementing cervical cytology analysis is the early detection of cancer. Timely detection of atypical cells in the biomaterial is necessary to be able to block the cancer process. Cervical cancer is one of the most common cancer pathologies among women. Its danger lies in its asymptomatic course, which is why research is so important.
Pap smear analysis of the cervical canal is an accurate and quick way to obtain reliable data on the presence or absence of atypical cells with precancerous or cancerous changes. In addition, the technique allows us to identify some underlying diseases, the etiology of which is not tumor.
Cytological examination of cervical smears is the standard for detection and follow-up of the following pathological conditions:
- presence of pathogenic microflora;
- disturbances in the menstrual cycle (duration, intensity);
- viral diseases (genital herpes, infection by the human papillomavirus - HPV);
- infertility (impossibility of conception);
- erosive changes in the cervical epithelium;
- pathological vaginal discharge.
A cytology smear is also necessary as a screening test in the following cases:
- Pregnancy planning.
- Several births in a row.
- Early age of a woman during her first birth.
- Frequent change of sexual partners.
- Postmenopause.
- Planning for placement of an intrauterine device.
- Visible changes of a pathological nature when examining the cervix in the mirrors.
- Family history (cases of cervical cancer and other cancer pathologies among relatives).
- Long-term hormone therapy.
- The previous cytology study was carried out for a long time.
Cytological examination of cervical smears is recommended to be carried out annually for preventive purposes, and if any pathological abnormalities are detected, at least twice a year to monitor the effectiveness of therapy.
Preparation for the biomaterial collection procedure
In order for the result of cervical cytology to be reliable, it is necessary to take into account the rules of preparation for collecting biomaterial. They are as follows:
- Elimination of hygiene procedures in the form of douching (sanitation).
- Abstain from sexual activity for three days before the procedure.
- Temporary refusal to use tampons, vaginal suppositories, tablets, creams and gels.
- Refrain from urinating two hours before taking the material.
In addition, you need to know about the following nuances:
- obtaining a smear from the cervical canal is possible only outside of menstrual bleeding, the optimal period is 10-12 days of the cycle;
- smear cytology will not be reliable in the acute phase of an infectious disease, so it is carried out after a course of therapy;
- intravaginal administration of any kind of medication should be stopped in consultation with the attending physician no less than five days before the procedure for collecting the material.
Additional conditions and rules that the patient must take into account must be clarified with the gynecologist.
Material collection technique
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To obtain material that will be subjected to cytological examination, the doctor makes a scraping from the exocervix - the outer part of the cervix - and from the mucous lining of the vagina using an Eyre spatula. To obtain a scraping and subsequent examination of a smear from the cervical canal, a special probe is used - endobrush. Its use makes it possible to obtain biomaterial in quantities sufficient for analysis.
A gynecologist’s set of tools for obtaining material may include:
- Air spatula;
- spirette - an instrument for aspiration of material from the endocervix;
- endobrush;
- tweezers;
- gynecological speculum;
- Volkmann spoon.
The sequence of actions during the procedure includes:
- Gynecological examination of the cervix in the speculum. At the same time, the vaginal walls are expanded and scraping is performed, which can cause a feeling of slight discomfort.
- At the same time, material is collected for microflora analysis.
- The resulting samples of biomaterial are applied to glass and fixed, then labeled and sent for analysis to the laboratory.
Interpretation of the results of cervical colposcopy
The procedure for obtaining biomaterial takes no more than 15 minutes.
Interpretation of research results
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The normal balance of microflora and the absence of pathological changes when analyzing a smear for cytology confirm the healthy state of the cervical canal. When studying, the cells in the smear are compared with the morphological standards of the norm, that is, their size, shape, and structure should not have abnormal deviations.
The doctor confirms that the study results correspond to a healthy state in the following cases:
- Cytology smear includes cylindrical single-layer epithelial cells.
- When taking a smear from the transition zone or vagina, it is normal to detect stratified epithelial cells.
Even minor deviations in cell morphology are reflected in the laboratory report. Changes may confirm inflammatory diseases or the presence of benign abnormalities. Most often noted:
- inflammatory atypia;
- atypia due to the presence of HPV;
- mixed atypia;
- atypia of unknown etiology, which require further diagnostic appointments.
What causes changes in the cervical epithelium?
Deviations in a cytology smear from normal values can provoke the following pathologies and conditions:
- Infection with human papillomavirus.
- Herpetic infection.
- Trichomoniasis.
- Candidiasis.
- Long-term use of medications, in particular antibiotics.
- Use of hormonal contraception.
- Installation of an intrauterine device
- Pregnancy.
What changes are possible?
Benign changes may include:
- Detection of trichomonas, candida fungi, anomalies caused by infection with the herpes virus.
- Cellular atypia provoked by inflammatory reactions: metaplasia, keratosis.
- Atrophic changes in epithelial cells in combination with inflammation: colpitis, metaplasia.
Dysplastic changes and atypia suggest the following conditions:
- Atypia of unknown origin (ASC-US).
- High risk of presence of cancer cells in the material (HSIL).
- Precancerous atypia: varying degrees of dysplasia.
If cancer cells are detected, it is necessary to prescribe additional examination methods and a subsequent course of therapeutic correction (conservative or surgical treatment) with constant cytological monitoring.
Cervicometry during pregnancy: features of its implementation
Labeling of cytology results
Changes in the results of cytological analysis of the designation presented in the table below.
Any degree of dysplastic changes is a signal confirming the need for further research and the appointment of adequate therapy.
Degrees of dysplasia
The following degrees of dysplastic changes in the cervical epithelium are distinguished:
- Easy. Confirms the onset of an active inflammatory process.
- Moderate. Talks about a high risk of developing cancer pathologies.
- Heavy. Precedes a precancerous condition.
Timely detection of dysplasia contributes to greater effectiveness of therapy, since it is still possible to prevent cancer pathologies.
Atypical cells detected: what does this mean for the patient
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The gynecologist should conduct a detailed consultation, during which he will explain what it is in a particular case and explain the advisability of conducting an additional examination. Additional diagnostic search methods will allow you to correctly determine the most effective course of therapy.
For diagnosis when atypical cells are detected during a cytological examination in gynecology, the following are additionally prescribed:
- repeated cytological analysis of the cervical epithelium;
- biopsy;
- general and biochemical blood test;
- test for detecting human papillomavirus.
It is important to follow all medical recommendations and prescriptions; this will allow the pathological process to be identified and corrected in a short time. The effectiveness of the course of treatment should be regularly monitored using cytological examination. Therapy will be considered complete when cytology results confirm the healthy state of the cervical epithelium.
Examination of scrapings from the cervix is an important diagnostic procedure that should be carried out regularly for preventive monitoring of a woman’s health. An annual visit to a gynecologist for an examination and diagnosis of possible pathologies should be a rule of life for everyone, because early diagnosis of any disease is the key to timely initiation of treatment and its high effectiveness.
Cytological analysis (from the Greek “cytos” - cell) is a study of the number, structure and shape of cells and intercellular components obtained from a living organism under an optical microscope. It allows you to identify pathological changes in the early stages and clarify their localization quickly enough, unlike other instrumental methods.
Cytological analysis is one of the most common diagnostic methods in gynecology and obstetrics.
In a women's health clinic, various fluids (vaginal and menstrual discharge, urine) and (more often) the surface layers of cells that are taken from various parts of the reproductive system are subjected to cytological examination.
For example:
- vulva;
- vagina;
- cervix and cervical canal (internal canal of the cervix);
- internal cavity of the uterus;
- fallopian tubes;
- ovaries.
For cytology of the external parts (up to the uterus), freely exfoliated layers of cells are required, so this study is a fairly painless, quick (from several minutes during surgery to several days during a routine examination) and mass methods recommended for annual routine examination of women over 18 ( subject to the onset of sexual activity) or 30 to 65 years.
Representatives of risk groups for oncology are examined 2 times a year; cancer patients undergoing treatment and endocrinological patients – more often, according to indications.
To study the cellular composition of deeper organs, additional measures are required:
- endoscopy (uterus);
- organ punctures;
- swabs and impressions obtained during laparoscopy, open incision or during surgical operations.
Cytology smear includes the examination of the superficial (epithelium) and middle (mesothelium) layers of organs, as well as other included components, and is used to solve several problems.
They are:
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Cytology analysis in gynecology is one of the most informative studies (for example, when establishing hormonal activity, cytology successfully competes with a blood test), however, the degree of its reliability is directly dependent on the qualifications of the doctor taking the material, on the strict adherence to the rules of staining and sample preparation and on the correct choice of fence location.
Therefore, the method requires systematic repetition, and if deviations are detected, supplementation with a comprehensive examination.
Types of cytological tests
Cytological analysis has been known in gynecology since the beginning of the 20th century, when the Greek physician Georgios Papanikolaou first used it for the early diagnosis of cervical cancer. Several new methods have now been developed that show improved reliability.
The procedure for carrying out manipulations when collecting material remains common to all these types; the differences relate to the methods of preparation, processing and analysis of the sample taken.
For example:
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The examination of the prepared sample is traditionally carried out visually by a cytologist using a powerful microscope, but in recent years hardware analysis has also appeared.
Differences between cytological and histological analyzes
Sometimes diagnosticians need to study not individual cells, but their relative position and the nature of the intercellular space. In this case, the patient is sent for histology (from the Greek “histos” - tissue) - collection and further examination of a small fragment of tissue (structurally and functionally related group of cells).
Features of histological examination:
- refers to biopsy methods;
- requires more complex training;
- carried out in a hospital;
- carried out under anesthesia;
- differs in a more labor-intensive aiming technique when taking;
- requires complex processing of selected material;
- hardware study required.
Tissue sampling is not indicated in the presence of very small foci of the detected lesion.
Histology is commonly used to diagnose human papillomavirus (HPV) and the level and stage of cancer.
Differences between cytological examination and analysis for tumor markers
Tumor markers are specific protein molecules that can be produced by both altered and healthy cells of the body in the presence of disorders.
For example:
- inflammatory process;
- benign formations;
- when smoking;
- when taking medications;
- during pregnancy, menstruation and other physiological changes;
- depends on age.
Therefore, the marker test is also not 100% reliable. The analysis requires examination of venous blood, urine and other fluids.
The objectives of the study are similar to the cytology analysis:
- identifying the presence of a tumor and determining its nature (oncological or benign);
- assessment of the effectiveness of anticancer therapy;
- search for metastases and relapses.
Testing for tumor markers is used for women at risk for cancers of the reproductive system, digestive system and other organs and is not used for preventive examination. Sometimes the method is used to clarify the results of a cytological test.
Many tumor markers identify different diseases, so this test requires a comprehensive examination.
The advantage of the test for gynecology is the ability to determine changes in organs above the cervix (ovaries, uterus, fallopian tubes). The test for tumor markers requires more careful preparation of the patient due to the high sensitivity of the test subjects to physiological fluctuations.
Differences from microbiological analysis (smear for flora)
A smear from the vagina, cervical canal, urethra and rectum for microflora (pathogenic, symbiotic and opportunistic microorganisms) is performed through manipulations similar to a smear for cytology, and is included in a routine gynecological examination, recommended for every woman every six months.
Usually both types of smears are taken at the same time. Microbiological analysis may require culture on a nutrient medium. Microscopy for bacterioflora is carried out using another staining method (Gram staining).
Indications
Cytology analysis in gynecology is part of the screening examination of the adult female population in many countries of the world. A routine cytology test is mandatory for all women over 18 (this age decreases with earlier onset of sexual activity) and under 65 years of age.
At an older age (due to a decrease in estrogen levels and a decrease in the reliability of the result), a smear is prescribed at the discretion of the gynecologist. The group of special attention includes women over 30 years of age.
For women of screening age, in the absence of positive test results (that is, in the absence of detected pathologies, stage 1 cytogram) for 2 years, the planned date is postponed every 2 years, with a negative result within 3 tests - for 3 years.
Indications for unscheduled cytological examination may include:
![](https://i0.wp.com/healthperfect.ru/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/analiz-na-tsitologiyu-v-ginekologii-7.jpg)
Test portability
A screening cytological study is carried out on cells no further than the outer part of the cervical canal and is a non-invasive method.
Taking freely exfoliated cells from the vagina does not cause discomfort; the patient experiences some discomfort when taking material from the surface of the cervix and from its canal, however, this procedure is short-term and also does not involve penetration into the deep layers.
To reduce discomfort, the gynecologist can pre-warm the instruments in hot water. This study is rightfully considered a trivial medical procedure and should not cause concern.
Women who are forced to undergo frequent smears for cytology (for example, cancer patients) get used to these manipulations very quickly, which should serve as excellent evidence for women who avoid this test due to fear of pain or possible complications.
Preliminary preparation
The reliability of the results of a cytological examination largely depends on proper preparation and a well-chosen time for visiting a gynecologist.
A smear should not be taken under the following conditions:
![](https://i1.wp.com/healthperfect.ru/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/analiz-na-tsitologiyu-v-ginekologii-8.jpg)
How is material collected for analysis?
A cytological smear is taken during a routine gynecological examination, which takes no more than 15 minutes and does not require any other special preparation from the patient. After installing the dilator and inserting the speculum, the specialist scrapes from the vaginal wall, the outer surface of the cervix and from the canal with a spatula or brush, places the smear on a glass slide and sends it to the laboratory assistant.
How long should I wait for an answer?
In emergency situations (for example, during surgery), the cytology result is provided to the surgeon within a few minutes before the operation is completed. Waiting for a response during a routine screening examination at a antenatal clinic takes up to 2 weeks, since in this case the time to prepare the result depends on the workload of the institution and does not require urgency.
In private clinics, an answer can be given within 1-3 days, but it should be remembered that the most accurate result of a cytological study can be obtained by following all stages of sample preparation, which takes about 7 days outside the cito (“urgent”) mode.
Decoding the results
Cytological analysis in gynecology ends with the issuance of results in the form of a cytogram.
The cytogram contains information about one of the 5 stages of disease development according to the Bethesda system from 2014:
- No deviations. Negative test result.
- Minor changes in cell morphology; There are no atypical cells. As a rule, this stage indicates the presence of inflammation, the detection of which will require additional examination measures.
- Some cells contain nuclear deformations, which indicates their tendency to be atypical. The stage is characteristic of cervical dysplasia and erosion and requires histological examination to exclude precancerous conditions.
- The presence of cells with malignant deformations: enlarged nucleus; altered cytoplasm; the structure of chromosomes is changed. This stage indicates a precancerous level of dysplasia.
- The presence of cells with malignant changes in large numbers.
In addition to epithelial cells, the cytogram describes other components of the smear:
- the degree of microbiological cleanliness of the vagina (the norm is grades 1 and 2; grades 3 and 4 indicate infectious inflammation);
- the number of leukocytes (white blood cells that appear in a smear during various types of inflammation; normally - up to 10 pieces in a smear from the surface of the cervix, up to 30 - from the urethra);
- presence of mucus (norm – moderate amount);
- the presence of bacteria and fungi (microorganisms must be absent);
- content of flat epithelial cells (no more than 10 pieces).
Disorders detected using a cytogram
Cytology analysis in gynecology is an informative method that allows you to diagnose many disorders at the initial stage. In addition to different degrees of progression of malignant processes, a cytogram helps to detect a wide range of other pathologies.
Infectious diseases:
![](https://i0.wp.com/healthperfect.ru/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/analiz-na-tsitologiyu-v-ginekologii-10.jpg)
Benign formations and dysplasia (cell deformations) are dangerous due to the possibility of degeneration into cancer:
- polyps– cell proliferation;
- leukoplakia(hyperkeratosis) – deformation of the epithelium (mucous lining) of the cervix;
- erythroplakia– atrophy of the cells of the upper layer, can be observed with low estrogen;
- dysplasia– changes in the structure of cervical epithelial cells (refers to precancerous conditions).
Inflammations of a non-infectious nature (for example, caused by decompensated diabetes mellitus).
Hormonal status and its deviations:
- high estrogen levels are an oncological risk factor for diseases of the genital organs and mammary glands;
- reduced amounts of estrogen are a possible cause of infertility and instability of the menstrual cycle;
- increased levels of androgens - male sex hormones;
- deviations in prolactin levels;
- discrepancy between hormonal activity and cycle phase.
Additional examinations that may be prescribed if 2-5 stages are detected in the cytogram:
![](https://i0.wp.com/healthperfect.ru/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/analiz-na-tsitologiyu-v-ginekologii-11.jpg)
Table 1:
Phenomena | Signs | Duration | Frequency of occurrence |
Norm |
| 1-2 days after the procedure | Often |
Dangerous |
| More than 3 days | Rarely |
Table 2:
Causes | Possible consequences | Actions |
| Pass on one's own |
|
|
| Seeking urgent medical attention |
Cost of analysis
Cytological examination in Russia is included in the free health insurance program. Private services offer testing within 1000 rubles. (data for 2018), with the possibility of collecting material at home.
Where can I get a smear for cytology?
Cytology analysis in gynecology is one of the mass types of examination of the female population in Russia.
According to the compulsory health insurance program, a cytology smear is given at the antenatal clinic at your place of residence.
Almost all private clinics in Russia offer similar services. Large institutions have their own laboratory facilities for testing samples, while smaller ones send samples to intermediary centers.
Possible complications after taking a smear
The standard procedure for collecting cytological material from areas to the back of the cervical canal may be limited to minor discomfort in the cervical area, which disappears after 1-2 days. However, sometimes other manifestations occur.
Normal and dangerous complications after cytological examination
To prevent complications after collecting material for cytoanalysis, you should follow several simple rules:
- for 1-2 days, limit yourself to a shower when taking water procedures;
- Abstain from sexual activity, douching, using a tampon and other intravaginal products for at least 1 week.
Features of cytological examination in pregnant women
During a normal pregnancy, a cytological smear is taken 3 times - at registration, at the 30th and 36th week. The main goal of the study is in this case to detect infections dangerous to the fetus, as well as to identify atypical cells, which, subject to predisposition, first appear during pregnancy.
Contraindications to manipulation are increased uterine tone and the threat of miscarriage.
The life of a modern active woman includes many factors that can negatively affect her health, therefore, for timely diagnosis of possible pathologies, it is extremely necessary to be regularly examined by specialists. Cytology analysis in gynecology is one of the most accessible, simple and effective methods for early detection of disorders.
Article format: Lozinsky Oleg
Video about cytology analysis
What is a cytology test and how is it done:
Cytology is a diagnostic method that allows you to study the structure of cells and detect the presence of atypical elements indicating the development of the disease. In gynecology, cytology analysis is a fairly common procedure.
The popularity of the method is easy to explain:
- firstly, a diagnostic smear for cytology does not require large expenses;
- secondly, a guarantee of reliable results in the shortest possible time;
- thirdly, it helps prevent the development of precancerous and cancerous conditions.
Cytology, smear for cytology or oncocytology - these are all popular synonyms of the medical term - Papanicolaou test.
Analysis for cell research in gynecology
The cervical canal or cervix is the anatomical site for collecting cellular material for research in gynecology. This anatomical site functions with two types of epithelium:
- stratified epithelium (covers the area of the vaginal part);
- columnar epithelium (lining the cervical canal at the junction of the cervix and uterus).
According to physiological norms, cellular elements are regularly renewed. Taking a smear for cytology in these parts of the cervical canal helps to detect atypical cancer cells at the initial stage of development.
A cytology analysis helps identify initial changes in the cervical canal of the uterus that contribute to the development of cancer over a short period of time. Given this reason, a cytology test is a mandatory preventive method in gynecology.
Mass smear testing among women belonging to different age groups and segments of the population demonstrates positive dynamics in reducing the incidence of cervical cancer.
If your appointment sheet indicates a smear for cytology, do not panic! This does not mean that you have cancer or are at increased risk of developing it. By no means, constant preventive examination and performing a smear for cytology delays the possibility of developing terrible diseases.
Women under 65 years of age should regularly visit a gynecologist and comply with all prescribed requirements. After 65 years, the frequency of submitting material for cytology is determined individually by the attending physician.
A Papanicolaou test is mandatory in the following cases:
- All girls/women over 18 years of age. In this case, the analysis is carried out without medical requirements, at will;
- Presence of sexual activity;
- Women over 30 years of age are required to undergo a medical test once a year;
- Pregnant women. Cytology is carried out according to the rules 3 times during the period of gestation;
- Interruptions in the menstrual cycle, the presence of human papillomavirus and malignant tumors in close family members are the reasons for a cytology smear every six months.
Factors leading to gynecological diseases and a negative cytology test result:
- Nicotine intake;
- Insufficiency of vitamins A, C;
- Immunodeficiency conditions, including HIV;
- Infection with chlamydial and herpes infections;
- Long-term inflammatory lesions of the female genital organs;
- Isolation of human papillomavirus in the blood;
- Systematic use of hormonal contraceptives;
- Onset of sexual activity before 16 years of age;
- Regular change of sexual partners;
- Several births in the anamnesis.
Stages of preparation for the analysis
It is difficult to predict what the doctor will prescribe at your next visit to his office. But if you are going to undergo a regular preventive examination with a gynecologist and undergo a number of necessary tests, follow these simple recommendations:
- Forget about nighttime pleasures for a few days;
- Move all chemical products for intimate hygiene into the back drawer, stop douching;
- Do not use medications, such as vaginal suppositories, sprays, etc. before taking a smear.
A smear for cytological examination is taken during a routine gynecological examination with speculum. The duration of all procedures, including examination, is 15 minutes.
Initially, the doctor assesses the condition of the vaginal walls and the visible part of the uterus after inserting a gynecological “mirror”. After this, the gynecologist proceeds directly to collecting the epithelium of the cervical canal. To do this, you will need a probe, a special swab or brush. Although the procedure is short and unpleasant, try to relax, otherwise the discomfort will increase due to muscle tension.
The resulting scraping is immediately sent to the laboratory for further study. Accurate results from the laboratory will arrive after 1 – 2 weeks.
The results will indicate either "positive" or "negative". It is absolutely clear that if the transcript contains the clause “negative”, this means absolute health of the cervix, the absence of atypical cells.
The item “positive” is not a clinical diagnosis! Yes, such a result indicates the presence of atypical cells, but this does not mean that they will soon become cancerous or are already cancerous. An analysis with a positive result occurs in infectious diseases acquired sexually, and even in inflammatory processes.
The decoding additionally includes the stages of the identified process:
- Stage 1 – the cytological picture is not changed;
- Stage 2 – there are minor deviations from the norm due to inflammation;
- Stage 3 – single cells with abnormalities of cellular elements (presumably malignant);
- Stage 4 – single cells of an exclusively malignant nature;
- Stage 5 – malignant cells in large numbers (exact diagnosis – cancer).
In case of a positive result, regardless of the stage, additional tests will be prescribed, for example, a repeat cytology test if the results are questionable, or colposcopy.
General condition after taking material for cytology
Do not worry if brownish-green discharge appears within 5 days after taking a smear. This is a normal reaction of the body and does not require treatment. On such not very joyful days, gynecologists advise using personal hygiene products.
To avoid pain and discomfort, take a week's break from sexual activity.
Consult a doctor immediately if, after taking the material for analysis, your body temperature rises, sharp pain in the lower abdomen and heavy bloody discharge appear.
Women's health requires constant intervention from specialized medical professionals. When a woman is pregnant, she seeks advice from a gynecologist; when she gives birth, obstetricians come to help. During medical examinations, representatives of the fair sex are necessarily examined by mammologists and the same gynecologists. Health is priceless, that's why we care about it so much. Recently, a disease such as cancer is destroying more and more bright hopes for a wonderful future. Oncology of the uterus or mammary glands is dangerous because in the first stages it cannot be determined unless you periodically come for examinations.
The science of cytology to aid diagnosis
Cytology is not entirely a medical science. It is rather more biological, but is important for diagnosing various diseases. This science deals with the study of the structure and basic functions of living cells. Under a microscope, the entire life cycle of a cell is determined. From its very origin to aging and death. Particular attention is paid to the reproduction of living cells, the presence of organelles, and the occurrence of any pathological processes in their functioning.
Medicine actively uses the developments of this science for its diagnostic purposes. Today, cytological studies of scrapings from the cervix are widely used. Knowledge about the structure and structure of cells makes it possible to develop innovative technologies in the treatment of dangerous diseases. Cytology has become a branch of laboratory research. It does not make any predictions, but is only descriptive. Oncocytology has become a new section - a science that helps diagnose tumors as soon as they appear.
Cytological examination in gynecology
In case of pathologies of the cervix or suspicion of them, a cytological examination of the smear is performed. Before starting and ending treatment for gynecological diseases, as well as during a routine medical examination, a cytology smear is mandatory. This study evaluates the condition of the cells of the cervix and other female organs.
For the first time such an analysis was carried out in the thirties of the last century. And the first classification of cells taken for cytological examination was published in 1954. It was changed several times, and its current version was developed in 1988. According to this version, cervical cells are divided into different classes, characterizing the degree of atypicality, ranging from normal to invasive cancer. These data are of great diagnostic value and allow you to select the most effective therapy.
Examination of cervical cells using a smear
A smear is not taken during colposcopy or vaginal examination. The procedure itself is performed under a microscope. Epithelial cells tend to constantly renew themselves, that is, slough off. They appear in the lumen of the cervix and in the vagina. The structure of these cells is such that microscopy can identify both healthy and atypical elements.
One of the simplest and most minimally invasive research methods, which is not accompanied by unpleasant sensations, is the Pap test. This procedure allows you to detect the possibility of degeneration of cervical cells into cancer.
Also, using this test, you can diagnose a tumor process in other female organs, for example, in the uterus or ovaries. Unfortunately, the Pap test is not always accurate. There have been situations when, after several negative results, a woman was still diagnosed with cervical cancer. But perhaps such incidents happened due to the wrong material being taken. Malignant degeneration begins from the lower layers and gradually grows upward. If you take only the superficial layer, then you can only notice malignant changes at the final stage.
Scraping for cytological examination
The material for cytological examination of the smear is taken using a brush and a special spatula, which is used to scrape off the cells arranged in layers with pressure. During this procedure, a lot of material from the cervix gets onto the glass, the structure of which does not change.
This process is completely painless. The cells are scraped off in several places and placed on a glass slide. After this, the drug is fixed with a special solution and painted with dyes. The smear is then sent for examination.
The result of a cytological examination may indicate the presence of atypical cells, which occur with severe inflammation or cancer.
How is cervical cell testing carried out?
Cryocauterization is an absolutely non-hazardous and painless procedure. It consists in freezing the affected areas of cervical tissue with a special probe. Then they peel off.
Also, after a cytological examination of the cervix using scraping, the gynecologist may prescribe additional procedures such as laser therapy and excision of the pathological area with a loop.