A pap smear is a way to detect abnormal cervical cells before they turn cancerous. Often the cells collected from a pap smear are checked for human papillomavirus (HPV) as well, a virus that causes cancerous cell changes. Both these tests are collectively useful for screening cervical cancer cases to reduce the number of new ones. This is very important in prevention and diagnosis of cervical cancer. At Maurya Labs, Purnea it is done both by traditional as well as Liquid Based Cytology (LBC) method. LBC is the most advanced way of doing Pap Smear.

A pap smear is a way to detect abnormal cervical cells before they turn cancerous. It is one of the best test for early detection of cervical cancer. Ideally all females should get the test done once a year.

• Screening: This is usually done to screen for cervical cancer in patients without symptoms for early identification, especially if there is a history of HIV or previous abnormal pap smears.
• Diagnosis: Determining the underlying cause of vaginal symptoms, including abnormal vaginal bleeding or discharge.
• Monitoring: As a follow-up test for monitoring cervical cell abnormalities or other findings detected on initial pap smears.

During the test a speculum is inserted through the vagina into the cervix, and a swab is taken for a cell sample, which is sent to the lab for review.