Introduction to Cervical Cytology

Welcome to the wonderful world of cervical cytology!

In cytology, changes in cell morphology are used to predict and define different disease states. Predicting preinvasive cervical lesions in cervical cytology allows treatment before invasive cervical cancer develops. Cervical cytology screening in organised screening programmes has greatly reduced the incidence of cervical cancer around the world.

In recent decades, our understanding of the role that Human Papillomaviruses (HPV) play in cervical cancer pathogenesis has exploded. A test for a group of oncogenic HPV types is now the primary cervical screening test in many countries. The combination of immunisation against HPV and screening for HPV followed by cytology triage, means that countries can now realistically work towards eliminating cervical cancer.

Cervical cancer prevention using HPV testing and cervical cytology is an exciting evolving field. Best wishes for your study during your time as a pathology registrar.

To complete this unit

1. Listen to the NCPTS PowerPoint talk on Introduction to Cervical Cytology

2. Read the NCPTS Cytomorphology Notes on Introduction to Cervical Cytology

3. Read reporting cervical cytology notes for Anatomical Pathology Registrars.

3a. Test yourself with the practice MCQS

3b. Test yourself with the practice slides

Next steps

4. Attend the Year 1-2 NCPTS workshop

5. Take the NCPTS assessment test at the end of the workshop to see how much you have learned