PRACTICAL 15: THINPREP MDC2008

Name: xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx ID No: xxxxxxxxxx

1. How the ThinPrep method is different from the Conventional Pap test?

In conventional method, doctor used a collection device to scrape the cervix and
then smear a portion of the cervical sample onto a slide. As a result, the specimen can
contain blood and mucus, which cloud visibility of the cells. In ThinPrep, the doctor uses
the same procedure to collect a sample from the patient, but then rinses the collection
device into a vial of preserving solution, thereby capturing the entire sample. The vial is
then sent to the laboratory, where an instrument called the ThinPrep 2000 processor
disperses and filters the contents to reduce blood, mucus and inflammation. This
instrument then deposits a thin, even layer of cervical cells onto a slide. This slide
contains a more uniform sample of well-preserved cells than the conventional method.

2. Explain the protocol for the collection methods below:

Labeling the patient’s name and ID on the

vial.

Obtaining an adequate sample from

ectocervix using Ayre’s spatula.

Rinsing the spatula in the PreservCyt

solution by swirling vigorously 10 times.
PRACTICAL 15: THINPREP MDC2008

Obtaining adequate sample from

endocervix using cytobrush by rotating it
half a turn.

Rinsing the cytobrush in the solution 10

times while pushing against the vial’s wall.

Tighten the cap of the vial so that the

torque line on the cap passes the torque
line on the vial.
PRACTICAL 15: THINPREP MDC2008

Complete the table below regarding the processes in ThinPrep.

Dispersion Cell Collection Cell Transfer

The cells in the vial are The cells are collected on The cells are collected and
mixed and rotated to the exterior surface by pressed against the slide.
separate debris and vacuum created within the The cells are adhered to
disperse mucus. filter. the slide resulting an even
cell distribution.
PRACTICAL 15: THINPREP MDC2008

B
A

Explain about A and B.

A is a sample on conventional smear. The slide shows the cells are overlapping,
which makes it difficult to visualize. It is also obscured by blood, mucus and other
materials. B is a sample on ThinPrep slide. The slide shows an even distribution of
cells, which makes it easier to visualize and can detect the abnormality presents on the
slide. The cells are cleared from any obscuring materials and it maintains the quality of
the cells due to the preservative solution.