PAP Smear

A cervical cytology test (PAP smear) examining cells from the cervix under a microscope to detect abnormal cellular changes that may indicate pre-cancerous conditions. Involves an internal examination with a cervical swab sample.

The PAP smear — named after Greek physician Georgios Papanikolaou — is one of the most established and effective cancer screening methods in medicine. The test collects a sample of cells from the cervix, which are then examined microscopically for abnormalities in cell shape, size, and organisation that may indicate pre-cancerous changes or early-stage cervical disease. At OneDayClinic, the PAP smear involves a brief internal examination during which a clinician collects a cervical cell sample using a spatula or brush. The sample is fixed, stained, and examined by a cytopathologist at the Reinier Haga MDC laboratory. Results are typically available within a few business days and are classified using the Bethesda system, which categorises findings from normal through various grades of abnormality. The PAP smear is complementary to HPV testing — while HPV testing identifies the presence of the virus that causes the vast majority of cervical cancers, the PAP smear detects the cellular changes that result from persistent HPV infection. For comprehensive cervical screening, the two tests can be combined in a single appointment at a discounted combined rate. The PAP smear is particularly valuable for women with a known positive HPV result who need follow-up cytological assessment.