What is liquid-based pathological examination?
Feb 18, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Chen Zhe
Introduction
For gynecological liquid-based cytology tests—such as ThinPrep Cytologic Test (TCT)—a sampling brush is typically rotated within the endocervical canal, specifically at the squamocolumnar junction, to collect exfoliated cervical cells. These cells are then placed into a liquid-based cytology vial and analyzed using computer-assisted scanning. Cervical cancer screening enables timely detection of abnormal cervical cells; subsequent analysis of these abnormal cells allows for prompt assessment of the severity of cervical lesions.
Gynecological liquid-based cytology is a type of cervical cancer screening, commonly performed via cervical exfoliative cell testing—specifically, liquid-based thin-layer cytology, widely known as the ThinPrep Cytologic Test (TCT). This screening helps assess whether cervical cellular changes indicative of malignancy are present in women.
What Is Liquid-Based Pathology Testing?
Liquid-based pathology testing refers to pathological examination of exfoliated cells and falls within the domain of cytopathology. It involves collecting and analyzing exfoliated cells from the cervix, vagina, or uterine cavity—hence the term “liquid-based pathology testing.”
For gynecological liquid-based tests such as TCT, a sampling brush is typically rotated at the squamocolumnar junction—the transitional zone between the ectocervix and endocervix—to collect exfoliated cervical cells. These cells are then placed into a liquid-based preservative vial and scanned using computer-assisted imaging systems. Cervical cancer screening enables timely detection of abnormal cervical cells; subsequent analysis of these abnormalities helps determine the extent of cervical pathology. Women with positive TCT results are advised to undergo concurrent human papillomavirus (HPV) testing. Moreover, if abnormal findings are identified, colposcopy is recommended: this procedure uses magnification to examine the cervix and allows targeted biopsy of suspicious areas for histopathological evaluation, thereby enabling definitive diagnosis.
Cervical cancer screening is a standard method for detecting cervical cancer. Combining TCT or other liquid-based gynecological cytology tests with HPV testing significantly improves the sensitivity and accuracy of cervical cancer detection. For women of childbearing age, annual cervical cancer screening is recommended to facilitate early identification of precancerous lesions and early-stage cervical cancer. Once cervical cancer progresses to an advanced stage, the prognosis deteriorates markedly; the five-year survival rate following radiotherapy may be only approximately 70%, posing a serious threat to women’s health and life. Therefore, early detection enables timely intervention during the precancerous or early invasive stages—effectively halting disease progression before it reaches an incurable stage.
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