PAPANICOLAOU SMEAR Meaning and
Definition
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Papanicolaou smear, commonly known as a pap smear or pap test, is a medical test performed on females to screen for cervical cancer and other potential abnormalities in the cervix. It is named after Dr. Georgios Papanikolaou, a Greek physician who developed the technique in the early 20th century.
During a pap smear, a healthcare professional collects cells from the cervix using a small brush or spatula. The collected cells are then spread onto a glass slide or placed into a liquid medium for laboratory analysis. The sample is examined under a microscope to detect any abnormal changes in the cells' appearance or structure.
The primary goal of a Papanicolaou smear is to identify precancerous and cancerous cells as early as possible, allowing for timely intervention and treatment. In addition to detecting cervical cancer, the test can also detect viral or bacterial infections, inflammation, and cellular changes that may lead to cancer in the future.
Routine pap smears are recommended for women aged 21 to 65 years, although the frequency can vary based on individual risk factors and medical history. The test is usually performed during a pelvic examination and is relatively quick, simple, and safe.
Papanicolaou smears have played a crucial role in reducing the incidence and mortality rates associated with cervical cancer. The widespread adoption of this screening tool has allowed for early detection, leading to more successful treatments and improved outcomes for women around the world.
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Etymology of PAPANICOLAOU SMEAR
The term "Papanicolaou smear" is named after its originator, Dr. George Papanicolaou. George Nicholas Papanicolaou was a Greek-American physician and researcher, born in 1883 in Greece. He immigrated to the United States in 1913 and eventually became a professor of anatomy at Cornell University.
Dr. Papanicolaou is best known for his research on the early detection of cervical cancer. In the 1920s, he developed a technique that involved collecting and staining samples of cells from the cervix in order to examine them under a microscope. This method, now known as the "Papanicolaou smear" or "Pap smear", revolutionized the early detection and diagnosis of cervical cancer.
As a result of his groundbreaking work, Dr. Papanicolaou is often referred to as the "father of cytopathology".
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