NurseWeek

New Pap test offers more accurate results

By Michelle Paolucci
October 16, 2000


	You've read the article. Now tell us what you think. Related sites UT Southwestern OBGYN.net National Cervical Cancer Coalition

Dallas. Cervical cancer might become easier to detect with a new test than with the standard Pap smear test.

Researchers at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas reported the results of a study, which indicates that the relatively new fluid-based Pap test ThinPrep Pap is a better way to screen for cervical cancer.

The study found that the layer of liquid used for the ThinPrep Pap allows for more accurate identification of cells or bits of cells, DNA proteins and bits of proteins, all of which are associated with cancer or precancerous conditions. The test offers a relatively simple way for molecular changes in cell samples to be analyzed.

Researchers believe this process could lead to the development of biomarkers identifying women at risk for cervical cancer and optimize chemoprevention strategies for these cancers.

"Our study shows that it is possible to conduct multiple analyses of DNA and protein levels of bits of cells from the cervical area using the leftover cells from the widely used, simple-to-perform, fluid-based ThinPrep Pap test," said Carolyn Muller, MD, lead researcher and assistant professor of obstetrics and gynecology at UT Southwestern.

The ThinPrep Pap is ideal for attempting to find risk-assessment biomarkers because its alcohol-based liquid can maintain the integrity of the various protein specimens while preserving them, Muller said. Also, only a fraction of the sample is used for the clinical Pap smear, allowing for further testing of the sample, she said.

The study appeared in the Aug. 11 issue of the Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology.