Pap Smear
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Synonym(s)
Pap Test, Papanicolaou Test
A procedure in which cells and secretions are collected from inside and around the cervix for examination under a microscope. Pap smear also refers to the laboratory test used to detect potentially precancerous or cancerous cells in the cervical cells obtained from a Pap smear. A Pap smear may also help identify other conditions, such as infections or inflammation.