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Pap test (Papanicolaou test or Pap smear)

A Pap test is done to look for changes in the cells of the cervix. During a Pap test, a small sample of cells from the surface of the cervix is collected. The sample is then spread or smeared on a slide (Pap smear) or mixed in a liquid fixative and sent to a lab to be looked at under a microscope. The cells are examined for cell changes that may be or can lead to cervical cancer.

A Pap test is usually done as part of a woman's regular pelvic exam.

Author Sandy Jocoy, RN
Editor Kathleen M. Ariss, MS
Associate Editor Pat Truman, MATC
Primary Medical Reviewer Joy Melnikow, MD, MPH - Family Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer Kevin Holcomb, MD - Gynecologic Oncology
Last Updated January 5, 2009

WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise

Last Updated: January 05, 2009
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