Utility of microwave processed cell blocks as a complement to cervico‐vaginal smears

Abstract

Cell blocks have largely been neglected in cervical cytology. The aim of this study was to determine if microwave processed cell blocks prepared from residual material on sampling devices could add to the diagnostic accuracy of cervico-vaginal smears. The material remaining on the spatula after making cervical smears was rinsed in ethanol and used to prepare microwave-processed cell blocks in 260 patients. Both Papanicolaou (Pap) smears and cell block sections were examined independently. The sensitivity and specificity of both techniques for detection of malignancy and intraepithelial lesions were calculated. Sensitivity and specificity for cytology smear for detection of malignancy were 79.16% and 100%, respectively. The sensitivity and specificity of cell block were 86.3% and 100%, respectively. The quality of the section and staining after microwave processing was excellent. Our modified technique using microwave fixation and processing substantially reduced the turn around time. Microwave processed cell blocks prepared from residual cervico-vaginal specimens on sampling devices can add to the diagnostic accuracy of Pap smear without patients needing to undergo an additional procedure.