Cervical Exfoliative Cytology by Papainicoula Stain and Visual Inspection with Acetic Acid in Screening of Cervical Cancer: A Cross Sectional Observational Study

Abstract

Introduction: Invasive cervical cancer, the second most common cancer among women globally is preceded by a long precancerous phase that can be detected by screening and treated effectively. Early detection by exfoliative cervical cell cytology by PAP smear and VIA to detect Ca Cx in precancerous CIN stage needs to be incorporated in preventive public health strategy. Methods: A cross-sectional observational comparative study, conducted over 1 year on 300 symptomatic women undergoing PAP smear and then subjected to VIA for screening of cervical carcinoma. Result: Although VIA is 100% sensitive its diagnostic accuracy was much less than PAP smear cytology. Discussion: PAP testing is one of the most important preventive screening interventions which reduce mortality from cervical cancer that has received recommendations. VIA is an alternative with sensitivity of 100% and lots of false positive results. Conclusion: VIA could be an effective and diagnostically suitable alternative to PAP in resource poor setting. Keywords: Papanicoula (PAP), Cervical Cancer, Visual inspection with Acetic acid (VIA)