Technology Allows for More Accurate Cervical Cancer Diagnosis
Monday, December 20, 2010
Providing an enhanced method for the diagnosis of cervical cancer, image-directed cytology combines state-of-the-art technology with expert human interpretation to allow for the best possible patient outcome.
Dual Review screening for the diagnosis of cervical cancer allows physicians to rest assured that their patients’ Pap smear tests will benefit from the most rigorous evaluation process. Because samples are screened by both the ThinPrep Imager — a machine developed by Cytyc now owned by Hologic for the diagnosis of cervical cancer — and an experienced cytotechnologist, patients receive a precise and accurate diagnosis.
“Traditionally, a cytotechnologist would review the specimen collected during a patient’s Pap smear test and make a decision using their specialized training and knowledge,” says Mary L. Nielsen, M.D., FACP, Medical Director for Kansas Pathology Consultants. “However, human error can affect the accurate identification of abnormal cells. By using a combination of both computerized imaging and specialized expertise, abnormal and potentially abnormal cells can be discerned more easily.”
Research has shown that image-directed cytology using the ThinPrep Imager significantly increases accurate diagnosis of low-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions and high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions.
Kansas Pathology Consultants is a laboratory in Wichita that provides image-directed cytology utilizing the ThinPrep Imager. A facility accredited by the College of American Pathologists, Kansas Pathology Consultants has been utilizing the imager for the past six years and has developed enhanced expertise with this method.
“Utilizing image-directed cytology technology has allowed us to provide improved evaluation for the diagnosis of cervical cancer,” says Dr. Nielsen. “Physicians can take heart in the knowledge that when they send a specimen to Kansas Pathology Consultants for evaluation, their patients are benefiting from the most advanced technology available for cervical cancer screening.”
For more information about Dr. Nielsen or Kansas Pathology Consultants, call (316) 681-2741.
MD News December 2010, Greater Kansas