Why is this procedure done?
A cytology test looks at cells by using a microscope. The doctor orders this test to learn more about the cells. The doctor can see what they look like and how they work. A cytology test is not the same as a biopsy. ‚
Doctors can do a cytology test on many kinds of fluids and tissues in the body. The doctor may order a cytology test to: ‚
- Look for certain illnesses
- Check for precancer or cancer cells
- See if there is a viral infection
- Learn about the kinds of cells in a fluid in your body
- Learn more about an illness
What will the results be?
- The doctor will look at the results of your test. The doctor will know if the results are normal or not. The doctor will know if you have an illness that needs treatment.
- If the results are negative or normal, it means your cells are likely normal.
- If the results are positive or not normal, your cells are not normal. There may be irritation, infection, or cells that show repair. Other cells may not look normal and may mean there is a more serious problem.
- Your doctor may order another test to check a diagnosis.
What happens before the procedure?
- A cytology sample is taken in many ways. These tests are done on fluid or tissue. Your doctor may take the fluid or tissue sample at your office visit. Other times the sample is collected during surgery.
- Talk with your doctor about how the sample will be taken.
What happens during the procedure?
- The doctor may use a small, soft brush to collect the cells. The cells are placed on a slide. Sometimes, doctors rinse a part of your body with a special fluid. The doctor does the cytology test on the rinse fluid. Another way the doctor may take a sample is by using a thin needle. Talk to your doctor about what will happen during your procedure.
- Your sample will go to the lab. The technicians will look at the cells under the microscope with care.
What happens after the procedure?
Ask your doctor when you will get the results. ‚
What care is needed at home?
Most often, you may do your everyday activities when you get back home. Talk to your doctor if you have had surgery. ‚
What follow-up care is needed?
Your doctor may ask you to make visits to the office to check on your progress. Be sure to keep these visits. This test will help your doctor understand if you have an illness or cells that are not normal. Together you can make a plan for more care. ‚
What problems could happen?
Where can I learn more?
American Association for Clinical Chemistry ‚
http://labtestsonline.org/understanding/analytes/pap/tab/test ‚
American Cancer Society ‚
http://www.cancer.org/acs/groups/cid/documents/webcontent/003185-pdf.pdf ‚
http://www.cancer.org/treatment/understandingyourdiagnosis/examsandtestdescriptions/testingbiopsyandcytologyspecimensforcancer/testing-biopsy-and-cytology-specimens-for-cancer-cytology-types ‚
Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer
This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care providers advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. ‚
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