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PAP Smear Results Unclear. Have Been Asked To Repeat Tests. Test Shows Dark Cells Present. Meaning?

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Posted on Mon, 26 Aug 2013
Question: My doctor's office called and said my pap results were unclear and I need to come back in 3 months. Also, dark cells present, what does this mean? I am terrified...
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Answered by Dr. Vasudha (2 hours later)
Hi,
You seem to be worried about Pap smear readings.
-because you have been told to repeat after 3 months.
PAP smear is for evaluating possibility/exclusion of cancer. It is done to detect dysplasia in the cervical cells.
Please understand the causes of repeat smears. They mainly are-
*The cells in the smear may be obscure-due to blood, mucus, inflammation. They need to be clear to give a definite diagnosis. (May be referred as dark cell)
*Cells may not be in enough number to give a clear result.
*The picture of the transient cells (the cells between Endometrium & Glands cells) are the ones which may develop in malignant cells. To give a definite diagnosis, these cells need to be clear seen. When it is not so, patient is told to repeat the test.
Therefore, I would suggest you to be positive, ask your consultant for need of medicines for inflammation of endometrium, maintain genital hygiene, and have a nutritious diet.
I hope I have sufficient explanation to remove your tension.
I will be happy to answer any further queries.
Thank you.

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Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Shanthi.E
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Answered by
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Dr. Vasudha

General & Family Physician

Practicing since :1970

Answered : 10388 Questions

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PAP Smear Results Unclear. Have Been Asked To Repeat Tests. Test Shows Dark Cells Present. Meaning?

Hi,
You seem to be worried about Pap smear readings.
-because you have been told to repeat after 3 months.
PAP smear is for evaluating possibility/exclusion of cancer. It is done to detect dysplasia in the cervical cells.
Please understand the causes of repeat smears. They mainly are-
*The cells in the smear may be obscure-due to blood, mucus, inflammation. They need to be clear to give a definite diagnosis. (May be referred as dark cell)
*Cells may not be in enough number to give a clear result.
*The picture of the transient cells (the cells between Endometrium & Glands cells) are the ones which may develop in malignant cells. To give a definite diagnosis, these cells need to be clear seen. When it is not so, patient is told to repeat the test.
Therefore, I would suggest you to be positive, ask your consultant for need of medicines for inflammation of endometrium, maintain genital hygiene, and have a nutritious diet.
I hope I have sufficient explanation to remove your tension.
I will be happy to answer any further queries.
Thank you.