An evaluation of cervical cytological screening in the University Teaching Hospital, Lusaka

A diagnostic cytology service was started in the Obstetric and Gynaecology Department of University Teaching Hospital, Lusaka in September, 1974. Its primary aim was to diagnose precancerous lesions or early invasive cancer of the cervix. However, the service was offered to other disciplines in the hospital who could benefit from cytology. During the two and a half period, September 1974, to 31st December 1976, 2,877 cervical smears were examined. Of these, 138 smears (4.8%) showed evidence of cellular abnormality consistent with dysplasia, carcinoma in situe, or invasive cancer. Trichomonas vaginalis was diagnosed in 464 cases (16%), Candidiasis in 89 (3.1%), and Schistosomiasis in 19 (0.7%).