Why it is performed
- Cervical cancer screening according to age and programme.
- Assess cellular abnormalities and determine follow-up, HPV testing, colposcopy or biopsy.
- Monitor previous cervical lesions.
- Assess specimen adequacy.
How it is performed
A speculum is inserted and cells are collected from the cervix. The laboratory prepares the specimen and a qualified professional examines it microscopically using standardised reporting.
Preparation
- Where possible avoid vaginal intercourse, tampons, creams, pessaries and douching for 24–48 hours.
- Preferably avoid heavy menstrual bleeding unless indicated.
- Report pregnancy, menopause, treatments and previous results.
- Screening frequency depends on age and history, not automatically yearly.
How Askabide processes it
Combined pathway
Each Askabide has a pathology unit and a collection, identification and management pathway. Cytology preparation and reading are performed in the designated unit or partner laboratory by qualified staff with report traceability.
Part is performed at Askabide and another phase or confirmation is processed externally.
Results and indicative intervals
Intervals vary by method, analyser, reagent, units, age, sex, pregnancy, menstrual-cycle phase and reference population. The valid interval is the one printed on the laboratory report.
| Parameter or result | Indicative reference | How it is interpreted |
|---|---|---|
| Satisfactory specimen | Sufficient material for interpretation | The report may state transformation-zone presence and limitations. |
| Negative for intraepithelial lesion or malignancy | No precancerous changes identified | Does not mean zero risk; screening continues. |
| ASC-US | Atypical squamous cells of undetermined significance | Often requires HPV triage or follow-up according to age and protocol. |
| LSIL | Low-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion | Often HPV-associated; management depends on age, HPV and history. |
| HSIL | High-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion | Requires specialist assessment without unnecessary delay. |
| AGC | Atypical glandular cells | Requires specific evaluation according to age and context. |
| Unsatisfactory specimen | Cannot be safely interpreted | Usually requires repeat collection. |
Important limitations
- Normal cytology does not exclude all gynaecological cancers or replace consultation for symptoms.
- Abnormal cytology does not necessarily mean cancer.
- HPV testing and cytology answer different questions.
- Clinical decisions use age, current and previous results, immune status and pregnancy.