CYTOLOGIC SMEAR Meaning and
Definition
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A cytologic smear, also known as a cytology smear or a Pap smear, refers to a diagnostic technique used in medicine to collect cells from the cervix or other parts of the body for microscopic examination. The procedure involves taking a sample of cells from the surface of the area of interest and spreading it on a glass slide, creating a thin layer that can be easily visualized under a microscope.
The main purpose of a cytologic smear is to detect abnormal or cancerous cells in the earliest stages of development. It is commonly used in the screening and diagnosis of cervical cancer, as well as other gynecological conditions such as inflammation and infection. By examining the cellular structure and morphology, pathologists or cytotechnologists can identify any morphological changes, irregularities, or abnormalities that may indicate disease.
Cytologic smears are often performed during routine gynecological examinations, during which a healthcare professional collects cells from the cervix using a small brush or spatula. The collected cells are then spread onto a glass slide, fixed, and stained to enhance visibility of the cellular features. The slide is then examined under a microscope where the cells can be further analyzed for any abnormalities.
Overall, cytologic smears are a valuable tool in early disease detection and prevention, providing a non-invasive and relatively simple method of assessing cellular health and identifying potential conditions or diseases.
Common Misspellings for CYTOLOGIC SMEAR
- xytologic smear
- vytologic smear
- fytologic smear
- dytologic smear
- cttologic smear
- cgtologic smear
- chtologic smear
- cutologic smear
- c7tologic smear
- c6tologic smear
- cyrologic smear
- cyfologic smear
- cygologic smear
- cyyologic smear
- cy6ologic smear
- cy5ologic smear
- cytilogic smear
- cytklogic smear
- cytllogic smear
Etymology of CYTOLOGIC SMEAR
The word "cytologic" is derived from the Greek roots "kytos" meaning "cell" and "logos" meaning "study" or "knowledge". So, "cytologic" refers to the study or knowledge of cells.
On the other hand, the term "smear" comes from the Old English word "smere" which means "to spread or smear". It refers to the technique used in cytology where a sample containing cells is spread thinly on a glass slide for examination under a microscope.
