Accuracy of detection of trichomonas vaginalis organisms on a liquid-based papanicolaou smear.
OBJECTIVE
The study was undertaken to determine the accuracy of the liquid-based Papanicolaou (Pap) smear in the detection of Trichomonas vaginalis organisms in women.


METHODS
Two hundred three consecutive patients who had the liquid-based Pap smear also underwent a culture for T vaginalis. A wet mount was performed if symptomatic. Results were analyzed for sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative predictive values.


RESULTS
Forty-four patients (21.6%) had a positive culture. On the liquid-based Pap smear, 28 patients (13.8%) were positive for T vaginalis, showing a sensitivity of 61.4%, a specificity of 99.4%, a positive predictive value of 96.4%, and a negative predictive value of 90.8%. When wet mount and culture were compared, a sensitivity of 50%, a specificity of 93%, a positive predictive value of 77%, and a negative predictive value of 80% were obtained.


CONCLUSIONS
The presence of T vaginalis organisms, as stated by the liquid-based Pap smear pathology report, is accurate and warrants treatment without further testing.
Lara-Torre
Eduardo
E
Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospitals of Cleveland, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, KY 40202, USA. elaratorre@yahoo.com
Pinkerton
Jay S
JS
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D000818:Animals; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008875:Middle Aged; D065006:Papanicolaou Test; D011237:Predictive Value of Tests; D012680:Sensitivity and Specificity; D014246:Trichomonas vaginalis / Q000302:isolation & purification*; D014626:Vaginal Smears / Q000379:methods* / Q000592:standards