Cancer Treatment

Pap test is a procedure for detecting cancer cells and abnormalities that could become cancerous in the female genital tract. It is most commonly used to evaluate the condition of the cervix, which includes the bottom portion and the opening of the uterus. The test is also called the Papanicolaou test and Pap smear test. George Papanicolaou, a Greek-born physician, developed the procedure in the United States from the 1920's to the 1940's. Widespread use of the Pap test has helped to greatly reduce the death rate from cancer of the cervix.

Before cancer develops in the cervix, the cells of the cervix go through many precancerous changes. These changes typically take several years. If a woman has Pap smear screenings regularly, precancerous abnormalities and early stages of cancer can be detected while these problems can be easily treated. With regular follow-up examinations, the woman can usually avoid developing invasive cancer (cancer that grows deeply into tissues).

A Pap smear can be performed in a physician's office. The procedure causes no pain and little discomfort. The physician collects a sample of cells from the cervix with a cotton swab, wooden scraper, or small brush. The physician then places the sample on a glass slide and sends it to a medical laboratory for examination. If abnormal cells are detected, the physician may examine the cervix through a type of microscope called a colposcope. If the physician finds abnormalities, a biopsy (removal and examination of tissue) will be performed to reach a diagnosis.

Women 18 years of age or older should have Pap smears taken annually. If a girl has sexual intercourse before the age of 18, she should begin having Pap smears earlier. Women who have had an abnormal Pap smear may need to be tested more frequently than once a year.