what is cytology test?

A cytology test is a type of medical test that involves examining cells from bodily tissues or fluids under a microscope to determine a diagnosis. Healthcare providers use cytology tests to screen for or diagnose cancer. There are two main kinds, or branches, of cytology: exfoliative cytology and intervention cytology. Exfoliative cytology tests involve collecting cell samples from body cavities and other surfaces, while intervention cytology tests involve taking cells from the body using a needle or brush. Some common cytology tests include the Pap test, urine cytology, and cerebrospinal fluid cytopathology.

There are several types of cytology tests, which are medical tests that involve collecting cells from the body for examination under a microscope.

Some common types of cytology tests include:

1. Pap test (also called a Pap smear):

A Pap test is used to screen for cervical cancer. During the test, a healthcare provider uses a small plastic or wooden spatula to gently scrape cells from the cervix, and a small brush to collect cells from the cervix and the area around it. The collected cells are placed on a glass slide and sent to a laboratory for examination.

2. Sputum cytology:

A sputum cytology test is used to detect lung cancer. The patient is asked to cough up a sample of sputum (phlegm) into a cup or container, which is then sent to a laboratory for examination.

3. Fine-needle aspiration (FNA) cytology:

FNA cytology is a type of biopsy that involves using a thin needle to collect cells from a suspicious area, such as a lump or mass. The collected cells are examined under a microscope to look for abnormal cells.

4. Body fluid cytology:

Body fluid cytology involves collecting and examining cells from body fluids, such as urine, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), or pleural fluid (the fluid that surrounds the lungs).

5. Endocervical curettage (ECC):

ECC is a procedure that involves collecting cells from the lining of the cervix using a small spoon-shaped instrument called a curette. The collected cells are examined under a microscope to look for abnormal cells.

There are many other types of cytology tests, and the specific type of test that is used will depend on the individual’s symptoms and the part of the body being tested.

How does a cytology test take?

A cytology test, also known as a cytologic examination or a smear test, is a medical test that involves collecting cells from the body for examination under a microscope. There are several types of cytology tests, including Pap tests (also called Pap smears), which are used to screen for cervical cancer, and sputum cytology, which is used to detect lung cancer.

The actual process of taking a cytology test is usually quick and relatively simple. Here is an overview of the steps involved:

  • Preparation:

The healthcare provider will explain the procedure to the patient and answer any questions they may have. The patient may be asked to remove some or all of their clothing, depending on the area of the body being tested.

  • Collection of cells:

The healthcare provider will use a special tool to collect cells from the body. For example, during a Pap test, the provider will use a small plastic or wooden spatula to gently scrape cells from the cervix, and a small brush to collect cells from the cervix and the area around it. For a sputum cytology test, the patient will be asked to cough up a sample of sputum (phlegm) into a cup or container.

  • Transport and processing:

The collected cells are placed on a glass slide or in a special solution and sent to a laboratory for processing. The laboratory will prepare the samples and examine them under a microscope to look for abnormal cells.

The entire process of taking a cytology test typically takes only a few minutes, although the results of the test may take several days or longer to come back. The patient may experience some discomfort or mild pain during the procedure, but this should resolve quickly.

are cytology tests accurate?

Cytology tests, also known as cytologic examinations or smear tests, are medical tests that involve collecting cells from the body for examination under a microscope. They can be an effective way to identify abnormal cells or to screen for certain types of cancer, but their accuracy can vary depending on the type of test and the circumstances under which it is performed.

Overall, cytology tests tend to be less accurate than other diagnostic tests, such as biopsies, which involve collecting a larger sample of tissue for examination. However, cytology tests can be an important tool for detecting cancer or other abnormalities in their early stages, when treatment is most likely to be successful.

Cytology tests can be an important tool for detecting cancer or other abnormalities, but they should not be used in isolation. If a cytology test is positive, further testing, such as a biopsy, may be needed to confirm the diagnosis.

Dr. Niharika Patel, MBBS

EA Laboratories