In simple words: This test analyzes cells from the cervix or vagina to check for abnormalities. The sample is collected in a special liquid and prepared in a thin layer for examination under a microscope. A computer system first screens the sample, and then a lab professional reviews it manually for a more detailed analysis.

The lab analyst performs the technical lab test to analyze a cervical or vaginal cytopathology specimen that a clinician collected in preservative fluid. The test uses automated thin layer preparation for the specimen followed by screening with an automated system and manually rescreening or review, all under a physician’s supervision. The test may apply to any reporting system, such as Bethesda or non–Bethesda.

Example 1: A patient has an inconclusive result from an initial automated Pap smear screening, requiring manual rescreening of the same slide by a lab analyst., A patient's Pap smear shows atypical cells during automated screening, prompting a manual review of specific areas of the slide to confirm the findings., A patient with a family history of cervical cancer undergoes a routine Pap smear. The automated system flags some cells, requiring a lab analyst to manually review the slide to ensure no abnormalities are present.

The documentation should include the following:* Patient demographics* Date of specimen collection* Specimen source (cervical or vaginal)* Type of preservative fluid used* Method of preparation (automated thin layer preparation)* Details of automated screening performed* Reason for manual rescreening or review* Results of both screenings* Interpretation by a qualified physician (if applicable).