Papanicolaou Smear (Noun)
Meaning
A sample of secretions and superficial cells of the uterine cervix and uterus; examined with a microscope to detect any abnormal cells.
Classification
Nouns denoting body parts.
Examples
- The doctor recommended a papanicolaou smear as part of the routine checkup to detect any cervical abnormalities.
- A papanicolaou smear is a simple and effective screening test for cervical cancer.
- The nurse explained that the papanicolaou smear would involve gently scraping cells from the cervix with a spatula.
- The results of the papanicolaou smear showed abnormal cell changes, prompting further testing.
- The American Cancer Society recommends that women have a papanicolaou smear every three years to screen for cervical cancer.