Present potential of exfoliative cytology in detection of cervix cancer

  Introduction: Conventional Pap smear is the mainstay for cervical cancer screening in developing countries and women should be motivated for cervical screening program to detect early dysplastic cells. This study was carried out to find out the prevalence of abnormalities in Pap smears, particularly pattern of epithelial cell abnormality in women attending Lumbini Medical College in western Nepal.   Methods: A cross-sectional study was carried out and 1066 Pap smears were studied to look for epithelial cell abnormality according to revised Bethesda system 2001.   Results: Out of 1066 patients who underwent Pap smear examination, 71 (6.6%) revealed epithelial cell abnormality; most were low grade squamous intra-epithelial lesions (LSIL) occupying 4.59% at the age between 23 to 29 years. Squamous cell carcinoma was found in 0.37 % of patients at the age 40 years and above. In our scenario, per vaginal discharge was the major finding of the patients who showed premalignant features.   Conclusions: Women above 40 years are at a risk of premalignant as well as malignant lesions and these women should undergo screening for abnormal cells at the age of 18 or when sexual activity starts and as per recommendations to look for early dysplastic cells. Cervical screening program should be motivated by the national policy makers and also by health professionals.