Sampling, sampling errors and specimen preparation

To obtain an adequate cervical smear for making a correct cytologic diagnos is, smear taking, laboratory handling and interpretation must be optimal. M any people are involved, and only by combined effort of all links can this target be seriously approached: the smear takers will have to be open minde d about technical improvements and read the morphologic descriptions cautio usly; in the laboratory, cytotechnicians and physicians will have to challe nge themselves and each other. It is mandatory to discard specimens that do not meet general standards of adequacy. At present a host of new technique s are being implemented. It is not feasible for all laboratories to be enga ged in testing these ne iu methods, but we are all requested to follow the development the best we can and switch to new ways when justified. Our work ing conditions are very different; therefore, it is our professional respon sibility and plight to respond at the right time. So far the conclusion is that the conventional Pap smear is the international standard of care for t he diagnosis of cervical cancer precursers in cancer screening programs. Ce rtainly, this may change within a very short time. Liquid-based techniques, and in particular HPV technologies, are just around the corner.