Carpet beetle larval parts in cervical cytology specimens

Hairs from carpet beetle larvae were demonstrated in 77 vaginal or cervical smears over a 36-month period. A morphologic description of these structures is presented, and studies of possible sources of contamination are presented and discussed. In some cases, contamination apparently occurred during the taking of the smears through the use of contaminated cotton swabs or wooden spatulas. Other possible sources of contamination include tampons.