by Ahmad Sadli

Created on: July 16, 2009   Last Updated: July 19, 2009

According to Mosby's Medical Dictionary of 8th edition, Pap (Papanicolaou) smear test is a simple smear method of examining stained exfoliative cells. It is used most commonly to detect cancers of the cervix, but it may be used for tissue specimens from any organ.

A smear, the Papanicolaou's (Pap) smear, is usually obtained during a routine pelvic examination annually beginning usually at 18 years of age. The technique permits early diagnosis of cancer and has contributed to a lower death rate from cervical cancer.

Basically for a pap test, doctor collects cells from the surface of the cervix using a plastic spatula called speculum to open up the cervix. A small bristle brush will be used to collect cells from the cervix. These cells will be gathered and sent to a lab to be clinically checked. Normally the woman will feel a scratch or a sort of cramp, but they are not really painful and take only a few seconds.

Pap smear is by far, the best tool to detect precancerous conditions and any hidden, small tumors that may lead to cervical cancer. Pap smear test may identify up to 85% of cervical cancers even in their earliest stages. Pap smear also can detect changes in cells of the cervix that may lead to cancer. The good news is if detected early, cervical cancer actually can be cured.

Since 1955 after the implementation of pap smear test, a staggering 75% decrease of cervical cancer death among American women have been recorded. Prior to that, cervical cancer is the most common cause of death among American women.

Cervical cancer actually begins with rather slow and progressive changes in normal cells on the surface of the cervix. These changes are called dysplasia. Should it be left untreated, these cells may become cancerous over time, perhaps after years. It is because of this pap smear is vital as a preventive measure. A pap test can almost accurately and inexpensively detect up to 90% of cervical cancers before symptoms start to develop.

When cancer develops in the cervix, cells start to behave abnormally. They start multiplying very quickly and building up into a lump or tumor. Furthermore, if you are rather late to act, the cancer can spread to other parts of the body through the blood or lymphatic system.

Basically, it is vital to detect and treat any cancer early. A Pap smear test is just an effective way to test for cancerous and potentially cancerous cervix cells. It is a simple, painless test but vital to detect cancer of the cervix at an earlier stage when a rather simple treatment can lead to a complete cure.

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