Normal cell content of cervical smears, contaminants and artifacts. Adequacy and unsatisfactory smears

Objective

     

    On completion of this section the cytotechnologist should know:

  • to be aware of the components of a normal cervical smear
  • to be able to recognise epithelial cells derived from the ectocervix, endocervix and endometrium
  • to be able to recognise vaginal flora, and common contaminants in cervical smears
  • to be familiar with basic smear patterns eg. in puberty pregnancy and menopausal state
  • to be able to evaluate the adequacy of a smear and to be able to identify unsatisfactory smears.