Is it possible to take oncocytology before menstruation. Oncocytology - a method of early diagnosis of cancer and inflammatory diseases

Pathologies of the female genital area in most cases are asymptomatic. The first signs begin to appear already at an advanced stage of the disease, when the question is not about preserving the reproductive function, but about saving the patient's life.

In order to avoid serious pathologies, early prevention is necessary. To preserve women's health, doctors recommend visiting a antenatal clinic at least twice a year.

A smear for oncocytology or a Papanicolaou test (Pap test) is the main and only test that helps detect cancer cervix at the very beginning of the development of the disease. It is worth noting that in addition to the prevention of oncology, the pap test can show the inflammatory process of the uterus or appendages.

Cytological examination performed during a scheduled inspection. on the gynecological chair. The doctor inserts a dilator into the vagina and fixes it in the desired position. Using a special spatula, the gynecologist collects cervical mucus from the surface of the epithelium of the cervix. In the laboratory, a cytological examination of the collected material is carried out using magnifying instruments.

Study Norm

At a follow-up appointment after a scheduled examination, a woman can find a receipt with the result of the analysis in the medical card. If no signs of cellular atypia were found in the smear, then the conclusion will say that the cytogram has no deviations or “ Cytogram without features". It is this result that is the main indicator of a woman's intimate health.

If the study results different from the norm, then you need to consult a gynecologist. The doctor will prescribe additional tests or conduct a cytological examination again, since in some cases cytology may show an incorrect picture. The results can be distorted inflammation, infection, pregnancy, equipment malfunction, or a gynecologist's mistake when taking a pap smear.

Preparation for analysis

To obtain a reliable cytological picture, special preparation is required for analysis. You can get the correct result if you follow the following rules:

• Refuse from sexual intercourse 3-4 days before visiting the gynecologist. During sexual contact, the pathogenic flora of the sexual partner can be introduced into the vagina or the cervix can be damaged.
• Do not wash with aggressive cleansers, as this can disrupt the acidic environment of the vagina.
• It is recommended to wash the genitals with water after using the toilet. Urine can get into the smear and distort the result.
• Do not use vaginal suppositories one week before the cytological examination.
• Do not use latex lubricants or douches one week prior to testing.

Follow the above rules are necessary before any scheduled examination by a gynecologist, since a pap test is performed at each appointment. But to get a more accurate result, it is required to take a smear on the 7-10th day of the cycle, that is, immediately after the end of menstruation.

Indications for oncocytology

In some cases, a smear for oncocytology reappoint or outside of the annual scheduled inspection. This measure is necessary to control the treatment and diagnosis of the following diseases:

• Colpitis (inflammation of the mucous membrane of the vagina).
• Erosion of the cervix of unknown etiology.
• Dysplasia of the cervix.
• Childbirth with internal tears and suturing.
• Human papillomavirus 16, 18 type.
• Inflammation of the uterus or appendages.
• Sexually transmitted diseases (herpes, chlamydia, gonorrhea and others).
• Diseases that lower the immune system.

Deciphering the results

Only a gynecologist at a scheduled examination can decipher the results of the analysis. But even after consulting a doctor, the exact diagnosis will not be known. A cytological study shows the type of abnormalities in the cellular structure of the cervical mucus, but the cause of this result can only be identified after additional studies: ultrasound and colposcopy. A smear for oncocytology may show the following results:

• Stage I (cytogram without features). It is typical for a smear of a healthy woman who does not have a pathology of the cervix and inflammatory processes in the small pelvis.
• II stage. This cytological picture is characteristic of the inflammatory process. Explicit atypical cells are absent, but the general cellular composition is changed.
• III stage. An extremely small number of cells prone to atypia were found in the smear. This picture is typical for the initial stage of precancerous disease (dysplasia, erosion). Diagnosis requires advanced colposcopy.
• IV stage. In the smear, formed cancer cells can be detected. This stage is typical for an advanced form of cervical dysplasia.
• V stage. Cytological picture of cervical cancer.

Oncocytology during pregnancy

The body of a woman during pregnancy somewhat loses its protective functions against infections and viruses. This change is the norm and occurs as a result of a weakened immune system. In order to determine the development of a possible disease at an early stage, pregnant women are tested almost every month.

Pap smear for oncocytology is mandatory when registering in a antenatal clinic, and surrenders each subsequent trimester. The cervix during pregnancy undergoes physiological changes that can give impetus to the development of pathology. At risk are women who have undergone radio wave treatment of erosion, dysplasia, cervical cysts and polyps.

It is worth noting that taking a smear for oncocytology in a pregnant woman does not pose a threat to the fetus, and cannot lead to termination of pregnancy.

How long does the analysis take?

Many women do not notice the process of taking a smear for oncocytology and ask the doctor again about the analysis. This procedure is absolutely painless because there are no nerve endings on the cervix. On average, the pap test lasts from 10 to 20 seconds, since the gynecologist simply needs to run a spatula over the epithelium of the cervix and transfer the material to a special laboratory glass. The most amount of time takes placement in a chair and installation of a gynecological mirror.

Experienced gynecologists combine a cytological smear with a visual examination of the cervix, in which case the procedure time is reduced to a few seconds. In the state antenatal clinic, the results of the analysis are ready in 10-14 days. To obtain a conclusion in a shorter time, you must contact a private clinic.

average price

The price of a cytological examination varies from 300 to 600 rubles, depending on the clinic and city. In the antenatal clinic, this analysis is done free of charge, for the purpose of the state program for the prevention of cervical cancer.

Many clinics include in the cost of a cytological smear an initial gynecological examination and a smear on the vaginal flora. In this case, the cost of complex diagnostics will be from 800 to 1000 rubles. It is worth noting the advantage of private clinics, since in public clinics there is a possibility of losing or replacing laboratory glasses due to a large flow of patients. As a rule, antenatal clinics simultaneously accept pregnant and non-pregnant women.

Oncocytology- This is one of the laboratory methods that has found its wide application in the field of gynecology.

It allows you to get the result of the state of the cervix on its outer section, the cervical canal, as well as in the area of ​​​​the external genital organs. The method is distinguished by a simple taking of material, as well as the possibility of a fairly quick assessment of the state of tissues.

Why is a smear for oncocytology performed?

Currently, the problem of cervical cancer occupies a leading position along with the oncological process of the mammary glands among all oncological diseases of women.

It is distinguished by particular aggressiveness and at the same time a low degree of clinical manifestations. Unfortunately, a large number of cervical cancers are detected already at advanced stages, when the chances of survival are significantly reduced. That is why the state and the society of obstetricians and gynecologists have developed a program for the early detection of cervical pathology.

For the diagnosis of cervical pathology, the main method, which is the most reliable and highly sensitive, is smear for oncocytology. It is carried out in any hospital institution and each specialist of the corresponding profile is trained in the correct taking of the necessary material.

Indications for a smear

Oncocytology is a screening method for the early detection of malignant processes in the cervix, as well as the upper parts of the female reproductive system.

That is why a smear is taken for all female representatives, starting from the age of 18, subject to the presence of sexual life. Or these are girls of an earlier age who also came to see a gynecologist and they are already sexually active.

The procedure is considered planned. The procedure is carried out during a planned examination by a gynecologist, as well as when registering for pregnancy, provided that there are no oncocytology results in the next six months.

The procedure is carried out not in the presence of any indications, but with the possible purpose of preventing oncological pathology.

Mandatory indications for which material is taken for oncocytology are:

How often should a pap smear be taken?

Oncocytology for the elderly

Women who are going through the menopause should be especially attentive to their health.

The positive aspects in this case is to reduce the risk of developing an oncological process on the cervix. This is largely due to the fact that the hormonal regulation of the organ is reduced and the chance of dishormonal disorders is much lower.

Two options for submitting an analysis:

1. If the woman has no underlying diseases or risk factors for cervical cancer, and for several years (at least three) she has taken smears for oncocytology regularly and she has no changes in the cellular composition, and persistent menopause has come, then a smear for oncocytology is allowed to be taken every two years.
2. If a woman does not regularly visit a specialist, in previous analyzes, an inflammatory process was detected, even in the absence of an altered cellular composition, a smear for oncocytology is taken once a year until positive results are achieved for three years.

Oncocytology and pregnancy

This period for any woman is very responsible, in addition, a strong restructuring takes place in the body and not always all of its systems continue to work smoothly. Various kinds of problems may arise, including during the work of the endocrine system.

Features of oncocytology for pregnant women:

1. During pregnancy, the risk of developing diseases is significantly increased., which can be attributed to oncological pathology. That is why, when a woman contacts a antenatal clinic in order to establish pregnancy or register, the doctor takes material for research, performing the procedure for taking a smear for oncocytology.
2. The obligatory moment is the accuracy of taking a smear and an explanation to the woman that in some cases, bloody or bloody discharge may appear that does not pose a threat to the life of the child.
3. It is recommended to take a smear for oncocytology when planning the birth of a child., in order to prevent some frightening moments for a woman, as well as to eliminate difficulties in obtaining material.

If necessary, a smear for oncocytology is taken during the second or third period of pregnancy. Most often, this is the moment of going on maternity leave and one of the last visits to the antenatal clinic before childbirth, it can be 35-37 weeks of pregnancy.

Types of oncocytology

Currently, there are several ways to obtain cellular material by determining oncocytology.

Among them, the most common in gynecology are:

• Taking a smear with subsequent staining by the Leishman method. It is the simplest and at the same time the most common method used in most budgetary institutions of the country.
• Taking a smear followed by Papanicolaou staining. A method that is more likely to produce the most accurate result. At the same time, its level of complexity can be several times higher than the previous one, and coloring is one of the most difficult. It is common in commercial institutions, as it is more costly in terms of price range and difficulty of implementation.
• Method of liquid cytology. This is one of the latest new and most accurate methods of taking material for oncocytology. Currently, only a small number of private medical institutions or large hospitals perform diagnostics. This is due to high economic costs and the recent introduction of the method into practice. But at the same time, this oncocytology is an undeniable advantage over others, since the amount of material obtained is many times greater than the previous ones. This is due to the introduction of the contents into a container with a liquid medium, where all the resulting cells are deposited. Next, the resulting cells are purified and examined.

How is a swab taken?

The collection of material for oncocytology does not cause great difficulties for the doctor, since this is a long-established mechanism. All the specialist was explained the nuances that he may encounter and which he must take into account in order to obtain the most reliable result.

In order to take a smear, you need:

Special cases

There are times when there are defects on the cervix or other upper genital tract that may cause the doctor to be suspicious.

In such cases, a smear for oncocytology can also be taken from them:

• To do this, similar twisting movements are performed on a suspicious area, taking into account the capture of all tissues in this area.
• It is important in this case that small traces of blood appear on the brush. This will mean the correctness of taking a smear, since all departments of the site have been captured.

After that, the woman does not undergo any manipulations, the installation of tampons is not required. It is only important to recall that during the day there may be spotting, which sometimes frightens women. They do not need to make any intervention, as they will pass on their own. During the day it is not recommended to live sexually and use douching.

Preparation for the procedure

In order to perform the procedure for taking a smear for oncocytology from the cervix, no specialized training is required.

To do this, it is enough just to remind the woman of a few important and simple points:

• To take a smear for oncocytology, you can come on any day of the menstrual cycle, with the exception of the period of menstruation. It is preferable to take tissues in the first phase of the menstrual cycle.
• If there is an inflammatory process in the area where the smear will be taken, then it should be well treated beforehand. This is due to the fact that inflamed cells can give a false result and subsequently cause additional manipulations to diagnose the condition.
• Two days before taking smears from the cervix, it is impossible to take material for research. This can be the definition of sexually transmitted infections, as well as viruses, etc. In such cases, the material is taken using a specialized brush, which can also be traumatic for tissues.
• Also, ultrasound procedures using a transvaginal probe should not be performed per day. In such cases, a gel may appear on the cytobrush, which will prevent the collection of full-fledged cellular material.
• The same applies to sexual intercourse, it should be completely excluded in a few days, regardless of the method of protection. Remains of condom lubricant, parts of the male bacterial flora and spermatozoa can get into the material.
• It is also not recommended to use vaginal suppositories and creams for three days., as their residues can get into the material for research and cause a false result.

Deciphering the results

Deciphering the smear and 5 degrees according to the Papanicolaou method:

The smear is normal

The smear values ​​are normal:

• After taking a smear from the cervix, cells can be obtained normally, representing a cylindrical epithelium. When they are examined, they will be without features.
• In some cases, metaplastic epithelium may be seen., which is normally a transition zone at the junction of the epithelium. Sometimes there are cells of the stratified squamous epithelium, which are part of the cervix.
• The quantitative ratio of the cellular component can be different, and it will depend on the structure of the cervix and the place where the transition zone is located.
• If the material was taken from the vaginal section, then the material is obtained mainly from the multilayered sections of the cervix.

A prerequisite for obtaining a normal smear for oncocytology is the presence of a cellular component of the same structure, composition, and shape of cells. The genetic apparatus must be unchanged.

When taking material during pregnancy for oncocytology, predominantly stratified squamous epithelium is detected.

Oncocytology table

Smear during inflammation

In some cases, a smear for oncocytology is taken when a woman has an inflammatory process on her neck. This may be due to improper preparation of a woman for a smear, resistance to therapy, or the presence of a chronic inflammatory process with improper treatment.

In this case, when diagnosing a smear for oncocytology, a change in both composition and structure is detected:

• When determining, it is possible to determine a large number of the main inflammatory component - leukocyte cells and their residues at various stages.
• With a specific infection, the pathogen is detected. It can be mushrooms or.

Cells that are distinctive in structure and shape are completely different until the moment of treatment, and after treatment they return to their normal state. In some cases, with a long-term pathological process or an acute condition, the cells may look like a cancer process or other conditions.

Negative results

When examining the cellular composition by determining the smear oncocytology, it is possible to identify the following changes:

Research price

In the conditions of state polyclinics, the study is carried out as planned when visiting a gynecologist and is completely free. If you want to go through the procedures faster and without a queue, then the price in private clinics will vary from 300 to 900 rubles.

Conclusion

It is on the basis of the above information that it should be understood that a smear for oncocytology is currently one of the most reliable results of early detection of cervical pathology.

The procedure is publicly available and is carried out as one of the options for clinical examination and examination for other pathologies.

A cytology smear (synonyms: cytology, atypia smear, oncocytology smear, pap test) is a gynecological examination method that allows you to detect most precancerous or in the cervix at an early stage when they are asymptomatic.

Why do you need a smear for cytology?

The Pap smear has helped save the lives of millions of women by helping to detect precancer or cervical cancer while it is still curable.

Who needs to take a smear for cytology?

A smear for cytology should be taken by every woman who has reached the age of 25. It does not matter if you are sexually active: you need to take a smear anyway.

How often do you need to take a smear for cytology?

From the age of 25 years, cytology should be taken every 2 years. If the next smear for atypia reveals any undesirable changes, then subsequent examinations will need to be carried out more often: 1-2 times a year (depending on the detected changes).

On what day of the cycle should I take a smear for cytology?

It is recommended to take a Pap test no earlier than the 5th day of the menstrual cycle (the first day of the cycle is considered the first day of menstruation), and only if the menstruation has already ended. At the latest, a smear can be taken 5 days before the start of the next menstruation.

How to prepare for a smear for cytology?

To obtain adequate examination results, gynecologists recommend refraining from sexual intercourse 1-2 days before taking a smear. Also, try not to douche, use tampons, or inject any medications (vaginal tablets, suppositories) into your vagina at least 2 days before visiting your gynecologist.

How is a smear taken for cytology?

A smear is taken from the cervix in the gynecologist's office, on the gynecological chair (as during).

In order to see the cervix, the doctor will insert a speculum into the vagina. Inserting a speculum may cause discomfort, but it is usually not painful.

After that, the gynecologist will take a special sterile brush, with which he will scrape off part of the upper layer of the cervix and the cervical canal. The resulting material will then be applied to a glass slide and sent to a laboratory for examination under a microscope.

Liquid Cytology

In the past few years, another method of preparing a smear for atypia, liquid cytology, has become widespread. Currently, this technique is considered more informative than a conventional smear, since liquid cytology is less likely to give false negative results, which means it more effectively detects atypical cells in the cervix.

Unlike the standard preparation of a smear for cytology, the material obtained from the cervix is ​​not immediately applied to a glass slide, but is first mixed with a special solution. Due to this, all the received cells of the cervix get into the study, and at the same time, mucus and leukocytes are eliminated, which can make diagnosis difficult.

Cytology smear: does it hurt?

The sampling itself does not cause pain or discomfort. The most unpleasant stage of this whole process is the introduction of a speculum. However, an experienced gynecologist inserts the speculum quickly and accurately, so the discomfort will last no more than 5-10 seconds.

When can I get the results of a cytology smear?

Cytology results are usually issued in 1-2 weeks. Ask your doctor when you can get your test results.

Deciphering the results of a smear for cytology (cytogram)

Pap smear results may look different depending on the country you live in and the laboratory where the pap smear was performed.

Only your gynecologist can adequately decipher the results of cytology. Do not rush to interpret the smear results yourself, as some of the data may unnecessarily scare you.

In this article, we will look at the meaning of the main terms that you may come across in the results of a smear.

What is drug quality?

The quality of the drug means how correctly (qualitatively) the gynecologist took the smear. Adequate product quality means that the smear was taken correctly and the smear results will be reliable.

Inadequate quality of the preparation means that the swab was taken incorrectly and its results will not be informative. In this case, it is recommended to retake the smear.

What is exocervix and endocervix?

Almost any smear result for cytology includes data from two points (loci): from the exocervix and from the endocervix.

The exocervix is ​​the outer part of the cervix that comes into contact with the vagina (the vaginal part of the cervix). Normally, cells of the stratified squamous epithelium (SSE) of the superficial, intermediate, and parabasal layers are found in the exocervix. In some women, columnar epithelium is also found in the endocervix.

Endocervix is ​​the canal of the cervix. Normally, cells of the cylindrical (glandular) epithelium are found in the cervical canal, but cells of the stratified squamous epithelium can also be found.

What is CBO?

CBO is an abbreviation that stands for "cytogram without features." I mean, it's the norm.

What is NILM?

The abbreviation NILM means the same as CBO, that is, a cytogram without features. Malignant cells were not found, the smear was within the normal range.

What is proliferation?

Proliferation is an accelerated cell division of the cervix, which, as a rule, indicates an inflammatory process. Proliferation can be moderate with little inflammation or severe with severe inflammation.

What is leukocyte infiltration?

Leukocyte infiltration is an increased content of white blood cells in the cervix, which indicates inflammation. Leukocyte infiltration in the vaginal part of the cervix may indicate exocervicitis and vaginitis (inflammation of the vagina).

Leukocyte infiltration in the cervical canal indicates endocervicitis (inflammation of the cervical canal).

What is an inflammation cytogram?

An inflammation cytogram is a collection of changes found in a smear, which indicate that an inflammatory process (cervicitis) is taking place in the cervix.

If you have a cytogram of inflammation, you need to undergo treatment and repeat a cytology smear after recovery.

What are koilocytes?

Koilocytes are the cells that show up on a Pap smear if a woman is infected (HPV).

Normally, healthy women should not have koilocytes. If you have been found to have koilocytes, you need to pass and go.

What is hyperkeratosis?

In hyperkeratosis, abnormal cells are found in the smear, which are not cancerous, but may indicate unwanted changes in the cervix.

If you have been found in a smear (leukoplakia), then you need to pass and go through.

What is metaplasia?

Metaplasia is the process of replacement of cells of one type by cells of another type. Since the mucous membrane of the cervix is ​​represented by two different types of cells, the process of metaplasia in the cervix is ​​a completely normal phenomenon. Squamous metaplasia can be detected in a normal cytology smear.

What is dysplasia?

What is ASC US?

ASC-US (atypical squamous cells of undetermined significance) is an English abbreviation that means that atypical squamous cells were found in the smear, the cause of which is unknown.

The cause of the appearance of such atypical cells is most often inflammation of the cervix, but the risk of more serious changes cannot be ruled out.

If ASC-US is detected, your doctor may recommend a repeat Pap test after 6 months, or may immediately advise additional testing: , and if necessary.

If you are over 45-50 years old and have been diagnosed with ASC-US, then your doctor may recommend an estrogen cream, since it is the lack of estrogen in the blood that can cause abnormal cells at your age.

What is ASC-H?

ASC-H (atypical squamous cells, cannot exclude HSIL) means that some squamous cells look abnormal (atypical) and this is similar to precancerous or cancerous changes in the cervix. To clarify the diagnosis, your gynecologist will prescribe and if necessary.

If the colposcopy is normal, your doctor will recommend a repeat Pap smear in 6 to 12 months.

What is AGC?

AGC (atypical glandular cells) means that abnormal (atypical) cells of the cylindrical epithelium were found in a cytology smear. To clarify the diagnosis, your gynecologist will prescribe a colposcopy and, if necessary, and.

What is LSIL?

LSIL (low-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion) means that atypical cells were found in the smear, which are most likely not related to cancer, but require more thorough diagnosis. To clarify the diagnosis, your gynecologist will prescribe and if necessary.

If the colposcopy is normal, your doctor will recommend a repeat Pap test for atypia in 6 to 12 months.

What is HSIL?

What is AIS?

What to do if a cytology smear showed abnormalities?

If the cytology results show evidence of possible inflammation or other processes in the cervix, ask your gynecologist to comment on the results and explain what this means.

Depending on the type of changes detected, the gynecologist may advise you to take a second smear in a few months, or prescribe additional examinations in order to clarify your diagnosis.

Nowadays, many women suffer from diseases of the uterus and cervical canal. The causes of such dangerous pathologies are very diverse. The main thing is to identify the disease in time and start fighting it. Otherwise, it can lead to oncological diseases, which are treated rarely and with great difficulty.

There are many methods and tests that can be used to identify negative abnormalities in the genitourinary system of a woman. Most of them do not cause discomfort for patients during the sampling. The results of such tests almost always accurately determine the type of disease. This is the method of oncocytology - analysis of the epithelium of the cervix.

Such an analysis is intended to identify negative deviations in the organ and its cervical canal. It is mainly used for suspected malignant tumors in the reproductive organ.

The essence of the study of material from the uterine cavity and its canal

Oncocytology and its analysis consist in the fact that a smear is taken from the cervix for further research in order to prevent. To do this, a smear is taken from a woman using a special tool. The procedure is carried out during a gynecological chair during a routine examination. It is painless and does not harm health. That is, there is no damage and adhesions after such a smear is taken. The analysis is carried out on the basis of the material taken from the cervix.

There are two types of analysis of the study of the genital organ: simple and liquid oncocytology. The first is that the smear is blurred on a special glass. This type of oncocytology analysis may not always give an accurate result. Liquid oncocytology has become an innovative method. The essence of the analysis lies in the fact that the material taken is not smeared on the glass, but is immersed in a special liquid that separates the affected cells. For a doctor, this method is more convenient, it carries a more reliable result than simple oncocytology.

The oncocytology procedure allows you to analyze the condition of the cervix, and accurately determine the stages of development of an oncological disease, if any. The cells that are needed for analysis have a two-layer structure and do not allow external microorganisms to penetrate into the cervical cavity. It is a smear with such material that a doctor needs for oncocytology. A change in the state of the epithelium provides information that pathological changes occur in the neck, which can lead to oncological diseases.

In order for oncocytology to give an accurate result, you need to know how to properly prepare for the analysis, and when it is better to take it. A smear is not taken at a time when a woman has inflammation in the genitals, especially in the cervix. Analysis of the epithelial cells of the genital organ will not give a result during the menstrual cycle. Therefore, before prescribing oncocytology, the doctor recommends special treatment, and only after it is the procedure for collecting cervical epithelial cells for Papanicolaou analysis (one of the oncocytology methods).

Preparing a woman for a smear test for cancer:

• It is worth refraining from intimate relationships at least a few days before the procedure for taking material from the cervix.
• It is necessary to abandon special means of intimate hygiene or douching a few days before the test. It is better to take a shower and not to take a bath before the study.
• Candles and other drugs before the oncocytology procedure are also prohibited.

Do not neglect the advice of a doctor before preparing for oncocytology. The results of the analysis will be more accurate if everything is done correctly. Otherwise, repeated studies may be prescribed, which can take precious time in getting rid of a dangerous pathology.

Useful video:

Indications for the study of the genital organ

The oncocytology procedure does not harm the woman's health, it is painless and takes a few minutes. Therefore, taking a smear for analysis is recommended for girls over the age of 18 every year for prevention, and for women after the age of 30, this study is required once a year to exclude negative changes in the cervix that can lead to cancer. If we talk about pregnancy, then here oncocytology is carried out at least three times during the entire period of gestation. This analysis will prevent dangerous phenomena that may threaten the health of a woman and an unborn child.

Important! Oncocytology in pregnant women is carried out only if the pregnancy is normal and the expectant mother is healthy. For any deviations or pathologies, it is not recommended to take a smear from the cervix for analysis of cancer.

With the help of oncocytology research, it is possible to detect malignant tumors in the cervix in the early stages. Smear analysis allows you to identify negative violations and prevent the development of dangerous pathologies.

Note! If a woman has a violation of menstruation, then the oncocytology procedure is recommended to be carried out on a regular basis every six months. Such indications include cervical erosion, any deviations in the state of the genital organ. The reason for the regular oncocytology and taking a smear, as well as the study of the necessary tests, may also be the predisposition of a woman to oncological diseases. This may be a malignant disease in the patient's family.

There are many more factors that can cause cervical cancer, the main ones are:

• Violation of the immune system (deficiency of vitamins A and C).
• organs of the genitourinary system, which has become chronic.
• The presence of various kinds of infections in the body.
• Frequent use on a long-term basis of drugs that prevent the conception of a child.
• Early sexual life and a large presence of partners in the sexual relations of partners.

It is worth noting that with the help of oncocytology, it is possible to identify other diseases that are poorly diagnosed by other tests:

1. Detection of atypical cells on the cervix. This is - .

Results of the procedure

Oncocytology analysis takes no more than two weeks. During this time, specialists, based on the swab taken, can accurately determine the identified deviations. In a short time they provide the doctor with the final results of the study of the collected material.

According to statistics, cervical cancer is given one of the leading places among malignant oncological pathologies in patients. Prevalence: 20 out of 100,000 women. The most at risk age group is between 35 and 60 years of age, and in girls under 20 years of age, the disease is extremely rare. A smear for oncocytology will allow diagnosing this disease at an early stage.

As a rule, with local cervical cancer, more than 80% of women live for more than 5 years, and in the presence of metastases, this figure does not exceed 13%. It is important to conduct an annual control and take an analysis for oncocytology on time. Timely screening, detection of precancerous and cancerous conditions, as well as adequate treatment tactics will help to avoid disability, disability and death.

Oncocytological diagnosis is the study of a smear under a microscope by a doctor to diagnose the presence or absence of pathological changes in the cells of the mucous epithelium. A smear for oncocytology of the cervix is ​​assigned to all girls who have reached the age of 18, at least once a year.

Why do you need a smear for oncocytology?

A procedure to assess the state of the mucous membrane of the cervix, identify the inflammatory process, as well as to timely detect the formation of precancerous or tumor cells.

If, according to laboratory diagnostics, the presence of an infectious agent of a viral, bacterial or protozoal nature was established, then a smear for oncocytology is important for determining the body's response to their presence. In addition, this method allows you to identify signs of proliferation, metaplasia or other modification of the epithelial tissue.

In addition, a smear for cervical cancer also allows you to establish factors that contribute to changes in epithelial tissue, among them:

• pathogenic microflora;
• exacerbation of the inflammatory process;
• pathological reactions of the organism to the intake of hormonal and other drugs;
• development of dysplasia.

Such a wide list of indicators that can be established with this type of diagnosis makes it possible to classify it as one of the most important in identifying visible pathological conditions of the mucous membranes on the cervix, and in a comprehensive screening examination.

Varieties

There are currently 3 main varieties:

• cytological diagnosis with Leishman staining - the most common type, which is most often used in state antenatal clinics;
• Rar test (Pap smear) - widely used in private laboratories and abroad. It is believed that the level of reliability of this type of diagnosis is much higher than the previous one. The mechanism of the analysis differs in the degree of complexity of smear staining;
• liquid cytology is one of the most modern diagnostic methods, the equipment for which is available in a few laboratories. It occupies a leading position in terms of information content and reliability. With this type of smear for oncocytology, the biomaterial is introduced into a special liquid medium for research. The cells are then cleansed and concentrated to form a thin, even coating. The mucosal epithelium prepared in this way is not subjected to drying during transportation to the laboratory for microscopy, which greatly increases the accuracy of the data obtained.

Analysis for oncocytology of the cervix

The procedure for taking a smear for oncocytology is completely painless and does not cause discomfort. This is a standard manipulation when visiting a gynecologist. The algorithm for taking a smear for oncocytology consists of the following steps:

• insertion of a speculum into the vagina;
• biomaterial sampling (smear; scraping) with a special spatula or cytobrush;
• additional collection of cell samples from the cervical canal with a cotton swab.

The taken biomaterial is spread evenly in a thin layer on a glass slide. Then the preparation is stained according to Leishman or Papanicolaou, after which it is studied in detail under a microscope. In the case of the liquid cytology technique, the glass slide is first placed in a special liquid.

In rare cases, taking a smear for oncocytology is accompanied by subsequent not abundant blood discharge, lasting no more than 2 days. Such manifestations are a variant of the norm and do not require a visit to the doctor.

Important: inflammatory processes of the internal genital organs are a limitation for this type of analysis.

This fact is due to the possibility of obtaining distorted and unreliable results, which will lead to an incorrect diagnosis and the appointment of an incorrect treatment. Therefore, the cause of the inflammatory process in the body is first diagnosed, followed by its relief. Only after that it is allowed to examine the cervix cytologically.

How long does a smear for oncocytology take

The duration of preparing a cytogram varies from 3 days to 2 weeks, not counting the day of taking the biomaterial, depending on the workload of the laboratory. In private clinics, results are usually issued within 3-4 business days. Ready-made results of liquid cytology are issued for 10-14 days.

A smear for oncocytology - transcript and normal values

Analysis of the mucous epithelium located on the cervix is ​​extremely informative for the practitioner. However, often the gynecologist does not issue a complete transcript to each patient individually.

Normal values ​​typical for healthy patients are presented in the table.

When is it possible to get erroneous results?

This situation is possible:

• in young girls under the age of 20 against the background of global hormonal changes that affect and modify the mucous epithelium;
• the material for the study was taken during menstruation. In this case, the finished product is represented by the prevailing number to the endometrium and blood;
• contamination of the finished product (spermatozoa, drugs, suppositories or cream, as well as lubricant for ultrasound);
• if the patient underwent a bimanual vaginal examination, due to which talc from gloves remained on the cervix;
• in case of ignoring the standards and rules for sampling biomaterial;
• with improper preparation and staining of the finished product.

When and how often should a smear be taken for oncocytology?

Starting from the age of 18, every girl should undergo this type of diagnosis once a year. The frequency of analysis increases for women who are at risk:

• age exceeds 35 years;
• abuse of tobacco smoking, psychotropic drugs and alcohol;
• long-term use of oral contraceptives;
• girls who had sexual intercourse very early;
• frequent change of partner;
• positive HIV and HPV status;
• STDs;
• in case of erosion or endometriosis;
• often recurrent inflammatory diseases of the pelvic organs;
• often recurrent genital herpes or cytomegalovirus infection;
• identification of oncological episodes in the pedigree;
• when the menstrual cycle fails.

Oncocytology for pregnant women

During pregnancy, the frequency of analysis can increase up to three times. This fact is due to the need for early detection of pathological processes that can threaten the mother and child.

Important: the procedure is carried out only in the case of a normal pregnancy and the patient is in full health.

If pathological conditions are detected, the study is postponed until complete recovery.

With the correct implementation of the biomaterial sampling technique, the procedure does not harm the woman, is painless and does not affect the course of pregnancy.

Oncocytology for older women

It is a mistake to believe that postmenopausal women have a reduced risk of developing gynecological diseases. Cancer affects people at any age. Moreover, against the background of concomitant diseases, the risk of pathologies of the internal genital organs increases. That is why ladies after 55 years of age are recommended to take this analysis at least twice a year.

The procedure for taking material for research and the algorithm for conducting the research itself is similar to that for young girls. It does not cause any discomfort or pain to elderly patients. Timely diagnosis of any pathological condition will allow you to start treatment as early as possible, achieving the most favorable outcomes, up to complete recovery.

Summarizing

In summary, the following important points should be emphasized:

• the study is recommended to be done at least 5 days from the start of the menstrual cycle, and also no later than 5 days before the expected start;
• before passing the smear, it is necessary to abandon sexual intercourse for at least 1 day, and from lubricants, tampons, douching procedures, the use of medicated suppositories and spermicidal preparations - 2 days in advance;
• in the presence of an acute infectious process in the body, it is necessary to stop it first, and then take a control analysis at least after 2 months;
• false-negative results and erroneous assignment of the studied material to class 1 are allowed, which is why it is important to conduct an annual control examination.

Graduated specialist, in 2014 she graduated with honors from Orenburg State University with a degree in microbiology. Postgraduate graduate of FGBOU VO Orenburg State Agrarian University.

In 2015 at the Institute of Cellular and Intracellular Symbiosis of the Ural Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, she underwent advanced training in the additional professional program "Bacteriology".

Laureate of the All-Russian competition for the best scientific work in the nomination "Biological Sciences" in 2017.