Cytology (Pap Smear) Genital Female Liquid Based Test
Short Name: Pap Smear Liquid Based
Also known as: Pap Test, Cervical Smear, Liquid-Based Cytology
Cytology (Pap Smear) Genital Female Liquid Based Test test available at DNA Labs India for ₹1,346. Uses Microscopy, Papanicolaou Staining on Endocervical cells collected via brush samples. Results in Report available next working day after sample collection.. Free home collection in 300+ cities across India.
🩺 Medically Reviewed By
Dr Pasupathy Arumugam
Consultant Pathologist · Reg: 21521
Last reviewed: September 7, 2026
Overview
To screen for cervical cancer and precancerous cell changes by detecting abnormal cytology in cervical samples, enabling early diagnosis and treatment.
- Test Code
- 465
- Price
- ₹1,346
- Sample Type
- Endocervical cells collected via brush
- Result Time
- Report available next working day after sample collection.
- Fasting Required
- No
- Method
- Microscopy, Papanicolaou Staining
Sample Collection
Avoid douching, using vaginal creams or medications, and sexual intercourse for 48 hours before the test. Do not schedule during menstrual period.
Method: Brush collection from cervix after speculum insertion
Laboratory Analysis
A healthcare provider will insert a speculum to visualize the cervix and use a brush to gently collect cells from the endocervix and ectocervix. The brush is then swirled in a liquid fixative container.
Report Delivery
Mild spotting or discomfort may occur; resume normal activities immediately. No restrictions post-procedure.
Timeline: Report available next working day after sample collection.
Patient Instructions
About This Test
Who Should Get This Test
To screen for cervical cancer and precancerous cell changes by detecting abnormal cytology in cervical samples, enabling early diagnosis and treatment.
How to Prepare
- Do not collect smears during menstrual cycles.
- Use only the Special Collection Kit provided by LPL.
- Ensure the Cytopathology Requisition Form (Form 8) is fully completed and submitted with the sample.
- Ship samples at room temperature.
Doctor's Notes
Reviewed by Dr Pasupathy Arumugam — MBBS, MD (Pathology) · Reg. No. 21521
"Regular Pap smears are essential for early detection of cervical cancer, significantly improving treatment outcomes and survival rates."
Last medically reviewed: September 7, 2026
Test Parameters & Specifications
Sample Stability
- Sample collected during menstruation
- Improper collection technique
- Missing or incomplete Cytopathology Requisition Form (Form 8)
- Contaminated or insufficient sample
Understanding Your Results
Negative (NILM)
No abnormal cells detected; routine screening recommended.
ASC-US
Atypical squamous cells of undetermined significance; may require HPV testing or repeat Pap in 12 months.
LSIL
Low-grade changes often related to HPV; follow-up with colposcopy recommended.
HSIL
High-grade changes indicating significant dysplasia; colposcopy and biopsy typically advised.
Carcinoma
Malignant cells detected; immediate referral to oncology for diagnosis and treatment.
Consult a doctor if you experience abnormal vaginal bleeding, pelvic pain, unusual discharge, or if you receive abnormal Pap smear results for further evaluation and management.
Limitations
- ⚠False negatives possible, especially with inadequate sampling
- ⚠Cannot detect all types of cervical cancer, such as adenocarcinoma in situ
- ⚠Requires follow-up testing for abnormal results
- ⚠Not a standalone diagnostic test; biopsy may be needed
Risks & Considerations
- ●Mild discomfort during collection
- ●Spotting or light bleeding
- ●Rare risk of infection
- ●Anxiety from abnormal results requiring follow-up
Interfering Factors
- ●Menstrual bleeding
- ●Recent douching or vaginal medication use
- ●Sexual intercourse within 48 hours before test
- ●Inadequate cell sample collection
- ●Inflammation or infection
Compare With Similar Tests
| Test | Cytology (Pap Smear) Genital Female Liquid Based Test | Conventional Pap Smear | HPV DNA Test | Colposcopy | Cervical Biopsy |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Comparison | Cytology (Pap Smear) Genital Female Liquid Based Test | Liquid-based Pap offers better cell preservation and reduced obscuring factors, potentially improving accuracy. | HPV test detects viral infection; often used alongside Pap for comprehensive screening, especially in women over 30. | Colposcopy is a follow-up procedure for abnormal Pap results, allowing detailed examination of the cervix. | Biopsy is a diagnostic test performed after abnormal findings to confirm the presence of precancerous or cancerous cells. |
Frequently Asked Questions
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