DIAGNOSTIC ACCURACY OF PAPANICOLAOU’S SMEAR IN DETECTION OF CYTOLOGICAL ABNORMALITIES OF CERVIX

Abstract

Objective: To study the accuracy of Pap test in detecting cytological abnormalities of the cervix 
and comparing with histopathological findings that is considered to be the gold standard. 
Methods: The present study is a prospective clinical study carried out in the department of 
Obstetrics and Gynaecology, SNMC & HSK Hospital and research centre, Bagalkot from 1st 
December 2015 to 30th November 2016 in 324 symptomatic women. All were subjected to 
Pap test, Colposcopy and Colposcopic directed biopsy. Patients were given appropriate 
treatment as per their Histopathological findings. Result: In present study the sensitivity of Pap 
smear was found to be 32.43%, specificity 90%, Positive predictive value 48.98%, Negative 
predictive value of 81.82%, and an overall Accuracy of 76.85%. Conclusion: Pap smear is 
simple, acceptable, cost effective and a non-invasive test for early detection and management 
of cervical cancer. Regular screening should be advised to the patients. However the sensitivity 
of Pap smear test is enhanced by Colposcopy and or HPV testing strategy. Regular screening 
should be advised to the patients. Government should take appropriate steps to encourage this 
screening method through National Programmes.