INFLUENCE OF GENITAL-INFECTION ON CERVICAL CYTOLOGY

Objective: To ascertain whether the presence of genital infection adve rsely affects smear quality. Method: A prospective study of all patien ts having cytology performed. The presence of genital infection was re corded and compared with the smear result. Results: The presence of ge nital infection was not associated with inadequate cytology. Inflammat ory changes were found in association with symptomatic candidiasis, tr ichomoniasis, Chlamydia trachomatis infection, primary herpes simplex, and the finding of 21-30 polymorphs per high power held (averaged ove r 10 fields) on cervical samples. Inadequate cytology was significantl y associated with the smear taker. Conclusion: The presence of genital infection at the time of cytology does not increase the rates of inad equacy, and opportunistic cytology should not be deferred as the patie nt may default from further appointments.