Popular Pap Test May Cause False Results women’s

The Pap test, also known as a Pap smear, is a screening test that is used to detect cervical cancer in women. It is a simple procedure that involves collecting cells from the cervix and then analyzing them to check for abnormal cells that could indicate cancer or precancerous conditions. The test is usually performed as part of a routine gynecological exam and is recommended for women who are 21 years or older, or who are sexually active.

False Results with ThinPrep Method

However, recent studies have shown that the ThinPrep method of collecting samples from Pap smears, which is used by most doctors and about 80% of diagnostic laboratories, may lead to false results. In a study, researchers found that only a third of women whose initial results were found to be abnormal with the ThinPrep smear actually had abnormal cervical cells, suggesting that they were infected with the human papillomavirus (HPV).

Hormones as the Culprit

Hormones have been found to be a major culprit in causing false results with the ThinPrep method. It is more common in women using birth control pills, but these false results can occur with any condition in which the woman had a predominance of certain types of female hormones such as pregnancy, taking hormone replacement therapy, and even being in certain phases of her cycle.

Advantages of ThinPrep and SurePath

The problem with the older Pap tests is that there were so much blood and inflammation in the smear that the pathologist couldn’t see all the cells. With ThinPrep and SurePath, that problem has been solved. However, the increased sensitivity of these tests can lead to false positive results.

Further Testing

It is important for women to understand that “abnormal” test results do not necessarily indicate cervical cancer and it is important for them to stay calm and follow up with their doctor for further testing. The use of HPV testing in conjunction with the Pap test is expected to improve the accuracy of cervical cancer screening.

In conclusion, the Pap test is a widely used screening tool for cervical cancer in women. It is a simple procedure that can detect abnormal cells that could indicate cancer or precancerous conditions. However, it is important to note that the test is not perfect and may not detect all cases of cervical cancer. Women should follow up with their healthcare provider if they have any concerns about the accuracy of their test results. 

Understanding Your Results

It is important to understand that an abnormal Pap test result does not always mean that a woman has cervical cancer. In fact, many women with abnormal test results do not have cancer. False positive results can occur due to a variety of reasons including human error, improper collection or handling of the sample, or limitations of the test itself. It is important for women to stay calm and not panic when receiving abnormal test results, and to follow up with their healthcare provider for further testing and treatment if necessary.

Other possible causes of abnormal test results include:

• HPV infection, which can cause changes in the cells of the cervix
• Inflammation, such as a yeast or bacterial infection
• Benign (non-cancerous) growths, such as cervical polyps
• Certain medications, including hormonal contraceptives

It is important to note that your healthcare provider is the best person to interpret your results and explain what they mean for you. They will work with you to determine the next steps, which may include additional testing or treatment. If you have any concerns or questions about your results, it’s important to discuss them with your healthcare provider.

Originally posted 2019-10-08 11:50:19.