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    Cytologic evaluation

    Cell evaluation; Cytology

    Cytologic evaluation is the analysis of cells from the body under a microscope. This is done to determine what the cells look like, and how they form and function. Special stains, including antibodies, can be applied to these cells to learn more about changes going on inside them.

    The test is usually used to look for cancers and precancerous changes in certain body organs. It may also be used to look for viral infections in cells. The test differs from a biopsy because only cells are examined, not pieces of tissue.

    The Pap smear is a common cytologic evaluation that looks at cells from the cervix. Some other examples include:

    Open References

    References

    Aster JC, Abbas AK, Kumar V, Debnath J, Das A. Neoplasia. In: Kumar V, Abbas AK, Aster JC, eds. Robbins, Cotran & Kumar Pathologic Basis of Disease. 11th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2026:chap 7.

    Vergani PV. How do pathologists help patient care? In: Cross SS, ed. Underwood's Pathology. 18th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier Limited; 2025:chap 12.

      • Pleural biopsy

        Pleural biopsy - illustration

        In a pleural biopsy, a small piece of pleural tissue in the chest is removed with a needle. The biopsy may distinguish between a cancerous and noncancerous disease. It also can help to detect whether a viral, fungal or parasitic disease is present.

        Pleural biopsy

        illustration

      • Pap smear

        Pap smear - illustration

        A Pap test is a simple, relatively inexpensive procedure that can easily detect cancerous or precancerous conditions.

        Pap smear

        illustration

        • Pleural biopsy

          Pleural biopsy - illustration

          In a pleural biopsy, a small piece of pleural tissue in the chest is removed with a needle. The biopsy may distinguish between a cancerous and noncancerous disease. It also can help to detect whether a viral, fungal or parasitic disease is present.

          Pleural biopsy

          illustration

        • Pap smear

          Pap smear - illustration

          A Pap test is a simple, relatively inexpensive procedure that can easily detect cancerous or precancerous conditions.

          Pap smear

          illustration

        Review Date: 7/3/2025

        Reviewed By: Robert Hurd , MD, Professor of Endocrinology and Health Care Ethics, Xavier University, Cincinnati, OH. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David C. Dugdale, MD, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.

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