title: The cervical smear. The cytopathologist's point of view.
abstract: An adequate specimen is fundamental to the practice of gynaecological cytology. This paper outlines the principles underlying the collection of the optimal smear. Such a specimen must contain adequate cells, both squamous and, in particular, glandular, and must not be contaminated excessively by blood or inflammatory exudate. Immediate and adequate fixation is also imperative.
authors.forename: M
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Drake
mesh_terms: D002582:Cervix Mucus / Q000166:cytology; D005194:Family Practice; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D013048:Specimen Handling / Q000379:methods*; D002583:Uterine Cervical Neoplasms / Q000473:pathology*; D014626:Vaginal Smears / Q000379:methods