With conventional cytology a smear taker takes a sample that is applied directly to a slide for microscopic investigation. With LBC, samples are collected in liquid vials and the slide is prepared semi-automatically at the laboratory. Potentially the advantages of LBC include a reduction in the number of inadequate slides, increased sensitivity of the test and increased productivity of smear readers.
Liquid Based Cytology (LBC) is a new technique for collecting cytological samples in order to detect cervical cancer.
Over 95% of women who develop cervical cancer test positive for HPV. By testing women for this virus, those with a negative result can potentially be excluded from unnecessary preventative treatment at colposcopy clinics.
