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Does acetic acid influence the non-dysplastic Pap smear?
Amadeus Hornemann1, Wolf-Dietrich Husstedt, Friederike Hoellen
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital of Schleswig-Holstein, Campus Luebeck, Ratzeburger Allee 160, 23538 Luebeck, Germany. amadeus@hornemann.de
The acetic acid test does not affect normal Papanicolaou (Pap) smear results. However, it may alter results for dysplastic cervical cells, warranting further investigation into this influence.
Area of Science:
- Gynecologic Cytopathology
- Cervical Cancer Screening
Background:
- Acetic acid testing is standard for colposcopy.
- Its impact on Papanicolaou (Pap) smear results is not fully understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate if acetic acid influences Papanicolaou (Pap) smear outcomes.
- To determine the effect on both normal and abnormal cervical cytology.
Main Methods:
- 50 patients underwent two Pap smears: one before and one after acetic acid application.
- Smears were evaluated by a cytologist blinded to the testing sequence.
Main Results:
- Acetic acid did not alter results for normal Pap smears.
- Two cases initially classified as atypical squamous cells of undetermined significance (ASCUS) were reclassified as low-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions (LSIL) after the acetic acid test.
Conclusions:
- The acetic acid test appears safe for non-dysplastic Pap smears.
- Potential alterations in dysplastic smear results necessitate further research.
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