EFFECTS OF DILUTE ACETIC-ACID ON THE CERVICAL SMEAR

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effect of 5% acetic acid on the cells and c ellular content of cervical smears. STUDY DESIGN: A randomized, contro lled trial was performed with 42 patients in each group. The study gro up received acetic acid application to the cervix followed by a smear, while the sequence was reversed in the control group. Cytologic evalu ation of the smears was done without knowledge of the group allocation in each case. RESULTS: The group in which acetic acid was applied bef ore the smear was taken showed significantly poorer staining propertie s of the smear (P < .0001) and also significantly lower cellular conte nt (P = .0006). CONCLUSION: Acetic acid has adverse effects on the cer vical smear and should be applied after the smear is taken.