Cervical Cytology Sample Preparation

An automated liquid-based cytology, SurePath™ liquid-based Pap test (BD, USA), was employed for cytological sample preparation. After removing obscuring mucus from the cervix with a cotton swab, endocervical and ectocervical cells were collected with cytobrush. This cytobrush was immediately rinsed in a vial containing SurePath Preservative Fluid. Samples were transported at room temperature for analysis at the International Clinical Laboratories (ICL) in Addis Ababa using BD PrepMate™ and PrepStain™ Slide Processor. Vials containing samples were labeled and placed into the BD PrepMate™ Slide Processor in which a liquid-based filtration process removed mucus and debris, preserving cell morphology, and making a smear of even distribution. All slides were stained with the BD SurePath Kit Cytology Stain and examined by two pathologists [7 (link)] who were enrolled in the College of American Pathologists (CAP) proficiency program and received stained LBC slides every three months as well as participating in the external quality assurance scheme. LBC test results were recorded based on the Bethesda gynecologic cytology guideline [8 (link)].