Cervical cancer: Automation of Pap test screening.

BACKGROUND: Cervical cancer progresses slowly, increasing the chance of early detection of pre-neoplastic lesions via Pap exam test and subsequently preventing deaths. However, the exam presents both false-negatives and false-positives results. Therefore, automatic methods (AMs) of reading the Pap test have been used to improve the quality control of the exam. We performed a literature review to evaluate the feasibility of implementing AMs in laboratories. METHODS: This work reviewed scientific publications regarding automated cytology from the last 15 years. The terms used were "Papanicolaou test" and "Automated cytology screening" in Portuguese, English, and Spanish, in the three scientific databases (SCIELO, PUBMED, MEDLINE). RESULTS: Of the resulting 787 articles, 34 were selected for a complete review, including three AMs: ThinPrep Imaging System, FocalPoint GS Imaging System and CytoProcessor. In total, 1 317 148 cytopathological slides were evaluated automatically, with 1 308 028 (99.3%) liquid-based cytology slides and 9120 (0.7%) conventional cytology smears. The AM diagnostic performances were statistically equal to or better than those of the manual method. AM use increased the detection of cellular abnormalities and reduced false-negatives. The average sample rejection rate was ≤3.5%. CONCLUSION: AMs are relevant in quality control during the analytical phase of cervical cancer screening. This technology eliminates slide-handling steps and reduces the sample space, allowing professionals to focus on diagnostic interpretation while maintaining high-level care, which can reduce false-negatives. Further studies with conventional cytology are needed. The use of AM is still not so widespread in cytopathology laboratories.

Cervical Stenosis: Previously Unrecognized Cause of False-Negative Human Papillomavirus Tests in Women Developing Cervical Cancer.

OBJECTIVES: Cervical stenosis can jeopardize adequate posttreatment cytologic follow-up of patients treated for high-grade cervical intraepithelial lesions. An impact on human papillomavirus (HPV) testing has not been described. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We describe 2 patients with cervical stenosis, followed by cytology and HPV co-testing after excisions of high-grade cervical intraepithelial lesions. Each had 1 or more co-test "double-negative" results. Hysterectomies revealed unexpected cervical carcinomas. RESULTS: In case 1, an 80-year-old woman with complete cervical stenosis and earlier high-grade squamous dysplasia presented with abdominal pain, nausea, and an enlarged uterus. Attempted endometrial biopsy was unsuccessful. Cytology and HPV tests 9 months earlier were negative. Hysterectomy revealed a cervical squamous carcinoma. In case 2, a 40-year-old woman followed conservatively after excision of endocervical adenocarcinoma in situ had 5 follow-up cytology and HPV co-tests. All were HPV negative. Elective hysterectomy revealed cervical adenocarcinoma. Both carcinomas tested HPV positive. CONCLUSIONS: Cervical stenosis in women developing cervical cancer can cause misleading sampling and false-negative HPV test results.

Experience and future perspectives on the use of the Papanicolaou Society of Cytopathology Terminology System for reporting pancreaticobiliary cytology.

The Papanicolaou Society of Cytopathology developed a set of guidelines for reporting pancreaticobiliary cytology in 2014 (PB System), with a six-tiered system: Nondiagnostic, Negative, Atypical, Neoplastic (Benign or Other), Suspicious, and Positive. This proposed scheme incorporates ancillary testing such as biochemical testing of cyst fluids for diagnosis and provides terminology that standardizes the category of the various diseases of the pancreas, some of which are difficult to diagnose specifically by cytology alone. Since its initial publication five and half years ago, several groups have published their experiences on the use of the PB System and have shown that most objectives proposed by the original publication have been achieved. They have shown that there is a better understanding and definition of the diagnostic categories with an associated distribution and risk of malignancy. The diagnostic categories of Neoplastic: Other, Suspicious, and Malignant show a high sensitivity and specificity for the diagnosis of malignancy. The System also provides a multi-specialist view of pancreatic lesions, with biochemical and radiological findings being incorporated into the final pathological report. The present review summarizes these findings and discusses the future perspectives and foreseen changes that are to be incorporated to a second edition of the reporting System.

The Quality of Pap Smears from the Brazilian Cervical Cancer Screening Program According to the Human Development Index.

Brazil is a country with strong socioeconomic disparities, which may explain the different rates of cervical cancer incidence and mortality and influence the quality of cervical cancer screening tests. The aim of this study was to perform a trend analysis of some quality indicators of Pap smears according to the Municipal Human Development Index (MHDI). Information about cytopathological exams (approximately 65,000,000) performed from 2006 to 2014 in women ages 25 to 64 years was obtained from the Cervical Cancer Information System (SISCOLO). The average annual percentage change (AAPC) for each indicator was calculated using the Joinpoint Regression Program, according to MHDI levels. Very low frequencies of unsatisfactory cases (<5%) were observed at different MHDI levels. Although the positivity index in the low- and medium-MHDI groups has increased, the values remained below international recommendations (3%-10%). The HSIL (high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion) percentage remained stationary at all levels of the MHDI. In the low- and medium-MHDI groups, most quality indicators were below the recommendations by Brazilian National Cancer Institute INCA, with no improvement trend; in the high-MHDI group, the majority of the indicators also presented no improvement, although they show slightly better quality indicators. The MHDI should be considered in the definition of the policies of the screening program for cervical cancer in Brazil, and the current program may require adjustments to achieve improved efficiency.

Estratégias Utilizadas para Melhorar a Qualidade dos Exames Citopatológicos / Strategies Used to Improve the Quality of Citopathological Examinations / Estrategias Utilizadas para Mejorar la Calidad de los Examenes Citopatológicos

Introdução: O exame citopatológico é utilizado para detecção precoce das lesões precursoras do câncer do colo uterino. Objetivo: Avaliar os indicadores de qualidade de acordo com o Manual de Gestão da Qualidade para Laboratório de Citopatologia. Método: Verificaram-se os laudos das fichas de requisição dos exames citopatológicos do laboratório clínico da Pontifícia Universidade de Goiás (LC-PUC-Goiás) entre janeiro de 2013 e dezembro de 2017. Resultados: Do total de 6.809 diagnósticos, observaram-se 99,4% (6.768/6.809) satisfatórios, sendo 91,3% (6.215/6.809) resultados negativos, 8,1% (553/6.809) diagnósticos com anormalidades citológicas e 0,6% (41/6.809) de exames insatisfatórios. O índice de positividade dos anos de 2013 a 2017 foram 10,5%, 7,9%, 8,6%, 6,8% e 5,3%, respectivamente. O percentual de exames compatíveis com lesão intraepitelial de alto grau (HSIL) entre os exames satisfatórios no ano de 2013 foi de 1,3%; 2014: 1,0%; 2015: 0,5%; 2016: 0,6%; e 2017: 0,7%, resultados dentro do estabelecido, ≥0,4%. A relação de células escamosas atípicas (ASC)/satisfatórios demostrou valores acima do estabelecido nos anos de 2013 com 6,8% e 2015 com 6,1%. Segundo o Manual de Gestão para Controle de Qualidade, espera-se que, no máximo, 4% a 5% de todos dos exames sejam classificados como ASC. Valores acima de 5% necessitam de uma atenção diferenciada. Conclusão: É de suma importância a educação continuada dos profissionais que participam de todas as etapas do processo, da fase pré-analítica à analítica, para que possíveis erros possam ser corrigidos e medidas preventivas tomadas para uma melhor qualidade na interpretação dos exames citopatológicos.

Introduction: The cytopathological examination is used for early detection of cervical cancer precursor lesions. Objective: Evaluate the quality indicators according to the Quality Management Manual for the Cytopathology Laboratory. Method: The results of the request forms of cytopathological examinations of the Clinical Laboratory of the Pontifical University of Goiás (LC-PUC-Goiás) were verified between January 2013 and December 2017. Results: Of 6,809 diagnoses in total, 99.4% (6,768/6,809) were satisfactory, 91.3% (6,215/6,809) were negative, 8.1% (553/6,809) presented cytological abnormalities and 0.6% (41/6,809) were unsatisfactory. The Positivity Index from 2013 to 2017 was 10.5%, 7.9%, 8.6%, 6.8% and 5.3%, respectively. The percentage of examinations with high-grade intraepithelial lesion (HSIL) among satisfactory examinations in 2013 was 1.3%, in 2014, 1.0%, in 2015, 0.5%, in 2016, 0.6 % and in 2017, 0.7%, results within the established ≥ 0.4%. The atypical squamous cells (ASC)/satisfactory ratio showed values above the standard figures in 2013 with 6.8% and 2015 with 6.1%. According to the Quality Control Management Manual, it is expected that, at the most, 4% to 5% of all exams be classified as ASC. Values above 5% demand differentiated attention. Conclusion: It is of the utmost importance the continued education of professionals who participate in all stages of the process, from the pre-analytical to the analytical phase, so that possible errors can be avoided and preventive measures taken for better quality interpretation of the cytopathological examinations.

Introducción: El examen citopatológico se utiliza para la detección temprana de lesiones precursoras de cáncer cervical. Objetivo: Evaluar los indicadores de calidad de acuerdo con el Manual de Gestión de Calidad para el laboratorio de citopatología. Método: Se verificaron los informes de los formularios de solicitud para los exámenes citopatológicos del Laboratorio Clínico de la Pontificia Universidad de Goiás (LC-PUC-Goiás), de enero de 2013 a diciembre de 2017. Resultados: Del total de 6.809 diagnósticos, se observarán 99,4% (6.768/6.809) diagnósticos satisfactorios, 91,3% (6.215/6.809) resultados negativos, 8,1% (553/6.809) diagnósticos con anomalías citológicas y 0,6% (41/6.809) exámenes insatisfactorios. El índice de positividad de 2013 a 2017 fue de 10,5%, 7,9%, 8,6%, 6,8% y 5,3% respectivamente. El porcentaje de exámenes compatibles con lesiones intraepiteliales de alto grado (HSIL) entre los exámenes satisfactorios en 2013 fue de 1,3%; 2014: 1,0%; 2015: 0,5%; 2016: 0,6%; y 2017: 0,7%, resultados dentro de lo establecido, ≥0,4%. La relación células escamosas atípicas (ASC)/satisfactorio fue más alta que la establecida en 2013 con 6,8% y 2015 con 6,1%. Según el Manual de Gestión de Control de Calidad, se espera que un máximo del 4% al 5% de todos los exámenes se clasifiquen como ASC. Los valores superiores al 5% requieren una atención diferente. Conclusión: Es de suma importancia la educación continua de los profesionales que participan en todas las etapas del proceso, desde la fase preanalítica hasta la analítica, para que se puedan corregir los posibles errores y se tomen medidas preventivas para una mejor calidad en la interpretación de los exámenes citopatológicos.

Insegurança nas ações de controle do câncer de colo uterino: atuação do enfermeiro na Estratégia de Saúde da Família / Insecurity in cervical cancer control actions: the nurse's role in the family's health strategy / Inseguridad en las acciones de control del cáncer de cuello uterino: actuación del enfermero en la estrategia de salud de la familia

Objetivo: analisar as ações de controle do câncer de colo uterino (CCU) desenvolvidas pelo enfermeiro na Estratégia de Saúde da Família (ESF) em um município da região sul de Mato Grosso. Métodos: trata-se de uma pesquisa exploratória, descritiva e com abordagem qualitativa, realizada em doze ESFs. A coleta de dados ocorreu no período de maio a junho de 2017, com 12 enfermeiros, por meio de entrevistas semiestruturadas. Para a análise dos dados utilizou-se a Análise de Conteúdo de Bardin. A pesquisa foi aprovada por Comitê de Ética em Pesquisa em 26 de abril de 2017. Resultados: a análise dos dados resultou em duas categorias denominadas: "a insegurança na realização do exame Papanicolaou" e "ações de controle do CCU". Conclusão: podemos concluir que, embora os enfermeiros reconheçam a necessidade e a relevância de rastreamento e diagnóstico precoce, a prática profissional relatada é bem divergente do preconizado pelo Ministério da Saúde. Descritores: Neoplasias do colo do útero, Teste Papanicolaou, Cuidados de Enfermagem

Objective: analyze the control actions of uterine cervix câncer (CCU) developed by Estratégia de Saúde da Família's nurses (ESF) in the municipality south region of Mato Grosso. Methods: This is an exploratory, descriptive and qualitative approach research, realized in twelve ESF's. The data collection was achieve in the period from May to June of 2017, with 12 nurses, through semistructures interviews. To conduct the data analysis was used "Content Actions of Bardin". This research was approved by Comitê de ÉticaemPesquisa in April 26th, 2017. Results: the data Analisis results between two categories called "The insecurities in accomplishment of Papanicolau" and "Control actios of CCU".Conclusion: We can conclude althought the nurses recognize the relevance and needs of the tracking code and early diagnosis, professional practice related is very different and divergent proposed by Ministério da Saúde

Objetivo: analizar lãs acciones de control Del cáncer de cuello uterino (CCU) desarrolladas por el enfermero em la Estrategia de Salud de La Familia (ESF) em el municipio región sur de Mato Grosso. Métodos: se trata de una investigación exploratoria, descriptiva y com abordaje cualitativo, realizada en doce ESF's. La recolección de datos ocurrióen el período de mayo a junio de 2017, con 12 enfermeros, por medio de entrevistas semiestructuradas. Para el análisis de los datos se utilizo el Análisis de Contenido de Bardin. La investigación fue aprobada por el Comité de Ética en Investigación el 26 de abril de 2017. Resultados: el análisis de los datos resultóen dos categorías denominadas: "La inseguridad en la realización del examen Papanicolaou" y "Acciones de Control del CCU". Conclusión: podemos concluir que aunque los enfermeros reconocen la necesidad y relevancia Del rastreo y diagnóstico precoz, la práctica profesional relatada es muy divergente del preconizado por el Ministerio de Salud

Avaliação do serviço de coleta para exame colpocitológico pela escala SERVQUAL.

OBJECTIVE: To analyze women's perception of the quality of the service provided for colposcopy test in the city of Belém (PA), Brazil. METHOD: Quantitative-descriptive study on 400 women who underwent Pap test on the public healthcare network, using the Service Quality (SERVQUAL) model. We used the Cronbach's alpha index to measure the reliability of the scale, and data were analyzed by quartiles of the gaps of the dimensions: tangibility, responsiveness, reliability, assurance, and empathy. RESULTS: The assurance dimension, corresponding to the knowledge and courtesy of staff, featured the highest degree of importance to users; and empathy, which corresponds to the staff's concern with women's needs, featured the lower degree. The most expressive negative gaps concerned the structure of services and the attitude of healthcare professionals when collecting the material. CONCLUSION: All gaps featured negative relationship between what was expected and perceived, expressing dissatisfaction regarding the service.

Avaliação do serviço de coleta para exame colpocitológico pela escala SERVQUAL / Evaluación del servicio de recolección para examen colpocitológico por la escala SERVQUAL / Avaliação do serviço de coleta para exame colpocitológico pela escala SERVQUAL

ABSTRACT Objective: To analyze women's perception of the quality of the service provided for colposcopy test in the city of Belém (PA), Brazil. Method: Quantitative-descriptive study on 400 women who underwent Pap test on the public healthcare network, using the Service Quality (SERVQUAL) model. We used the Cronbach's alpha index to measure the reliability of the scale, and data were analyzed by quartiles of the gaps of the dimensions: tangibility, responsiveness, reliability, assurance, and empathy. Results: The assurance dimension, corresponding to the knowledge and courtesy of staff, featured the highest degree of importance to users; and empathy, which corresponds to the staff's concern with women's needs, featured the lower degree. The most expressive negative gaps concerned the structure of services and the attitude of healthcare professionals when collecting the material. Conclusion: All gaps featured negative relationship between what was expected and perceived, expressing dissatisfaction regarding the service.

RESUMEN Objetivo: Analizar la percepción de mujeres acerca de la calidad del servicio de colpocitología oncótica en Belém (PA). Método: Estudio cuantitativo-descriptivo con 400 mujeres que realizaron el examen de colpocitología oncótica en la red pública de salud, utilizando el modelo Service Quality (SERVQUAL). Se utilizó el Alpha de Cronbach para medir la confiabilidad de la escala, y los datos fueron analizados por los cuartiles de los gaps de las dimensiones: tangibilidad, responsividad, confiabilidad, credibilidad y empatía. Resultados: La dimensión credibilidad, correspondiente al conocimiento y a la cortesía de los funcionarios, presentó mayor grado de importancia para las usuarias; y la empatía, que corresponde a la preocupación demostrada por los funcionarios con las necesidades de las mujeres, exhibió menor grado. Los gaps negativos más expresivos se refieren a la estructura de los servicios y a la actitud de los profesionales con ocasión de la recolección del material. Conclusión: Todos los gaps presentaron relación negativa entre lo esperado y lo percibido expresando la insatisfacción con relación al servicio.

RESUMO Objetivo: Analisar a percepção de mulheres acerca da qualidade do serviço de colpocitologia oncótica em Belém (PA). Método: Estudo quantitativo-descritivo com 400 mulheres que realizaram o exame de colpocitologia oncótica na rede pública de saúde, utilizando o modelo Service Quality (SERVQUAL). Utilizou-se o Alpha de Cronbach para medir a confiabilidade da escala, e os dados foram analisados pelos quartis dos gaps das dimensões: tangibilidade, responsividade, confiabilidade, credibilidade e empatia. Resultados: A dimensão credibilidade, correspondente ao conhecimento e cortesia dos funcionários, apresentou maior grau de importância para as usuárias, e a empatia, que corresponde à preocupação demonstrada pelos funcionários com as necessidades das mulheres, exibiu menor grau. Os gaps negativos mais expressivos dizem respeito à estrutura dos serviços e a atitude dos profissionais por ocasião da coleta de material. Conclusão: Todos os gaps apresentaram relação negativa entre o esperado e o percebido expressando a insatisfação em relação ao serviço.

Internal quality control indicators in cervical cytopathology of a university laboratory.

INTRODUCTION: To evaluate the internal quality control indicators and quality management programme in a university cytopathology laboratory. METHODS: All results of conventional cervical smears tests (taken from the SISCAN, the Brazilian cervical cancer screening system) of women aged ≥15 years at the time of Papanicolaou smear specimen collection during January 2007-December 2014 were included. The final results of the cytopathology were classified in accordance with the Bethesda System. The variables included in the database were the woman's name, date of birth, and age at the time of sampling (15-30, 31-40 and older than 40 years). RESULTS: In this period, 50 286 cytopathology examinations were carried out. Of these, 44 386 (91.34%) were negative for malignancy or unsatisfactory and 4209 (8.66%) presented epithelial abnormalities. The percentage of the tests consistent with atypical squamous cells (ASC) between satisfactory examinations was 4.12%; the percentage of tests compatible with ASC among abnormal examinations was 47.87%; the ASC/squamous intraepithelial lesion) ratio was 0.97 and the percentage of high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion among satisfactory tests was 2.21%, and the 5-year retrospective review identified 4.97% of false-negative results. CONCLUSION: All rates obtained were consistent over the years and within the recommended values by Federal Regulation of Brazil. This demonstrates the efficacy of our established internal quality monitoring and continuing education, reflecting the commitment of the team involved in the release of smear reports.

[Quality of the exo-endocervical sampling in the prevention of uterine cervix cancer]. / Calidad de la toma exo-endocervical en la prevención del cáncer de cuello uterino.

Cervical and vaginal cytology, Papanicolaou test (PAP), is the most effective test for screening of preneoplastic lesions, and cervical cancer prevention. Its sensitivity goes from 50 to 98%, according to different statistics, and this variation is related to the sampling procedure. A satisfactory smear should be taken from the transformation zone, the junction between endocervix and exocervix. According to Bethesda, metaplastic and/or endocervical cells should be observed under the microscope. The traditional PAP smear includes an exo-endocervical sampling using the Ayre spatula; however, only near 50% of the smears are representative of the transformation zone. In this case report, we present the case of a 40-year-old woman who had negative cytology in five consecutive annual PAP smears, none of which showed metaplastic or endocervical cells. A new sample evidenced a carcinoma in situ (HSIL: high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion). We emphasize the importance of performing a correct exo-endocervical sampling to allow prompt detection of all premalignant lesions and to prevent cervical cancer, which still persists with high mortality worldwide.

Calidad de la toma exo-endocervical en la prevención del cáncer de cuello uterino / Quality of the exo-endocervical sampling in the prevention of uterine cervix cancer

La citología cérvico-vaginal, test de Papanicolaou (PAP), es la técnica diagnóstica de cribado más efectiva para la detección de lesiones precancerosas y la prevención del cáncer de cuello uterino. La sensibilidad de la prueba varía en las diferentes estadísticas entre el 50% y el 98%; la causa de esta amplitud depende de la toma de muestra. Para que la toma se considere satisfactoria es necesario que se realice de la zona escamocolumnar, zona de transformación, y según el sistema Bethesda en el extendido se deben observar células metaplásicas y/o endocervicales. El PAP convencional incluye la toma exo-endocervical con espátula de Ayre; sin embargo, solo el 50% aproximadamente de las muestras son representativas de la zona de transformación. Para ejemplificar esta situación se presenta el caso de una mujer de 40 años que, a pesar de tener citologías negativas durante cinco años, ninguna con células endocervicales o metaplásicas, una toma adecuada mostró un carcinoma in situ (HSIL: lesión intraepitelial escamosa de alto grado). Recalcamos la importancia de la correcta toma exo-endocervical para poder detectar todas las lesiones premalignas y prevenir este tipo de cáncer que aún tiene alta tasa de mortalidad en todo el mundo.

Cervical and vaginal cytology, Papanicolaou test (PAP), is the most effective test for screening of preneoplastic lesions, and cervical cancer prevention. Its sensitivity goes from 50 to 98%, according to different statistics, and this variation is related to the sampling procedure. A satisfactory smear should be taken from the transformation zone, the junction between endocervix and exocervix. According to Bethesda, metaplastic and/or endocervical cells should be observed under the microscope. The traditional PAP smear includes an exo-endocervical sampling using the Ayre spatula; however, only near 50% of the smears are representative of the transformation zone. In this case report, we present the case of a 40-year-old woman who had negative cytology in five consecutive annual PAP smears, none of which showed metaplastic or endocervical cells. A new sample evidenced a carcinoma in situ (HSIL: high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion). We emphasize the importance of performing a correct exo-endocervical sampling to allow prompt detection of all premalignant lesions and to prevent cervical cancer, which still persists with high mortality worldwide.

Quality of cervical cancer screening in Brazil: external assessment of the PMAQ.

OBJECTIVE: To examine whether demographic and socioeconomic variables and the variables of the organization of services are associated with the quality of cervical cancer screening. METHODS: This is a survey carried out in the health services of the five Brazilian regions in 2012. The sample consisted of users of basic health units participating in the Program for Improving Access and Quality of the Primary Care. The independent variables analyzed were: socioeconomic characteristics (municipal context), demographic characteristics (user profile), and two domains related to the organization of basic services (work structure and process). The low quality of the screening was assessed from the lack of access, late examination, and lack of guidance. Crude and adjusted analyses by Poisson regression assessed the association between outcomes and independent variables. RESULTS: The values of lack of access, late examination, and lack of guidance were 6.7%, 11.2%, and 19.2%, respectively. Problems of quality were lower according to the increase in Municipal Human Development Index and per capita household income, increasing with population size and municipal coverage of the Family Health Strategy. The Midwest region of the country presented the highest occurrences of low quality outcomes. Indigenous and yellow women had the highest prevalence of outcomes. Women with partner, who received the Bolsa Família Program, and who had paid work had less chances of having lack of access, late examination, and lack of guidance. The appropriate work process in health services decreased the likelihood of low quality in all indicators. CONCLUSIONS: Investments in the work process of health teams, social cash transfer programs, and social conditions of the population are essential to improve the quality of the program of cervical cancer screening in Brazil. OBJETIVO: Analisar se as variáveis demográficas, socioeconômicas e da organização dos serviços estão associadas à qualidade do rastreamento do câncer de colo uterino. MÉTODOS: Inquérito realizado em serviços de saúde das cinco regiões brasileiras em 2012. A amostra foi composta por usuárias de unidades básicas de saúde participantes do Programa de Melhoria do Acesso e da Qualidade na Atenção Básica. As variáveis independentes analisadas foram: características socioeconômicas (contexto municipal); características demográficas (perfil de usuárias); e dois domínios relativos à organização dos serviços básicos (estrutura e processo de trabalho). A baixa qualidade do rastreamento foi avaliada por meio da falta de acesso, atraso na realização do exame e falta de recebimento de orientações. Análises bruta e ajustada por meio de regressão de Poisson avaliaram a associação entre os desfechos e as variáveis independentes. RESULTADOS: A falta de acesso, atraso na realização do exame e falta de recebimento de orientações foram de 6,7%, 11,2% e 19,2%, respectivamente. Os problemas de qualidade foram menores de acordo com o aumento do Índice de Desenvolvimento Humano Municipal e da renda familiar per capita, aumentando com o porte populacional e a cobertura municipal da Estratégia Saúde da Família. A região Centro-Oeste do país apresentou as maiores ocorrências dos desfechos de baixa qualidade. As mulheres de raça indígena e amarela tiveram as maiores prevalências dos desfechos. As mulheres com companheiro, que recebiam o benefício do Programa Bolsa Família e tinham trabalho remunerado tiveram menos falta de acesso, menos atraso na realização do exame e menos falta de recebimento de orientações. O processo de trabalho adequado nos serviços de saúde diminuiu a probabilidade de baixa qualidade em todos os indicadores. CONCLUSÕES: Investimentos em processo de trabalho das equipes de saúde, programas sociais de transferência de renda e condições sociais da população são essenciais para melhorar a qualidade do programa de rastreamento de colo de útero no Brasil.

The utility of pap cell block preparations with liqui-PREP™ cell pellets to clarify the cytological diagnosis of atypical squamous cells of undetermined significance and atypical glandular cells.

OBJECTIVE: Atypical squamous cells of undetermined significance (ASCUS) and atypical glandular cells (AGC) reflect cellular abnormalities insufficient for clear diagnosis. We used cell pellets obtained from liquid-based cytology (LBC) to prepare cell blocks (CB) and clarify the initial diagnosis of ASCUS and AGC. STUDY DESIGN: A total of 393 CBs with initial diagnosis of ASCUS or AGC were processed. Of those, 305 of the ASCUS and 20 of the AGC had adequate specimens. We compared results of CBs prepared from ASCUS and AGC to determine which had higher frequencies of higher-grade lesions. RESULTS: A majority of specimens (83%) were adequate for evaluation. Compared with the initial diagnosis, 14% (42/305) of ASCUS were diagnosed with low-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (LSIL) in CB, while 10% (2/20) of AGC were diagnosed with LSIL or adenocarcinoma. No statistical relationship between the initial diagnosis of ASCUS and AGC and results of higher-grade lesions in CB is evident as determined by p value greater than 0.05 (p = 0.228). CONCLUSIONS: CBs prepared from Liqui-PREP cell pellets are, in most cases, assessable and can be useful as an adjunctive test to help clarify the initial diagnosis of ASCUS and AGC. Diagn. Cytopathol. 2017;45:520-525. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Impact of Applying a Learning Strategy to Improve the Sample Quality in Cervical Screening in Nursing Staff in Social Service.

OBJECTIVES: The study sought to assess the impact of applying a learning strategy to improve the quality of sample collection during cervical screening by students from the Nursing Degree Program doing social service. METHODS: This was a longitudinal, quasi-experimental study with the participation of 23 interns from the Nursing Degree Program at a public university from San Luis Potosí, Mexico. The work assessed knowledge of practical skills in taking cervical cytology tests and the quality of samples before and after applying a learning strategy that included 10 h of theoretical training and 22 h of practices on themes related to sample collection in cervical screening. RESULTS: A statistically significant difference was obtained in improved knowledge (t = -12.8 p<0.001) and practical skills (t = -8.86 p<0.001) after the intervention. The increased percentage of suitable samples from 30.43% to 82.60% was attributed to the application of the learning strategy in the pre- and post-intervention phases (p<0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Training is effective to improve knowledge and practical skills to collect samples in cervical screening, as well as the quality of the samples for their interpretation.

Quality of cervical cancer screening in Brazil: external assessment of the PMAQ / Qualidade do rastreamento do câncer de colo uterino no Brasil: avaliação externa do PMAQ

ABSTRACT OBJECTIVE To examine whether demographic and socioeconomic variables and the variables of the organization of services are associated with the quality of cervical cancer screening. METHODS This is a survey carried out in the health services of the five Brazilian regions in 2012. The sample consisted of users of basic health units participating in the Program for Improving Access and Quality of the Primary Care. The independent variables analyzed were: socioeconomic characteristics (municipal context), demographic characteristics (user profile), and two domains related to the organization of basic services (work structure and process). The low quality of the screening was assessed from the lack of access, late examination, and lack of guidance. Crude and adjusted analyses by Poisson regression assessed the association between outcomes and independent variables. RESULTS The values of lack of access, late examination, and lack of guidance were 6.7%, 11.2%, and 19.2%, respectively. Problems of quality were lower according to the increase in Municipal Human Development Index and per capita household income, increasing with population size and municipal coverage of the Family Health Strategy. The Midwest region of the country presented the highest occurrences of low quality outcomes. Indigenous and yellow women had the highest prevalence of outcomes. Women with partner, who received the Bolsa Família Program, and who had paid work had less chances of having lack of access, late examination, and lack of guidance. The appropriate work process in health services decreased the likelihood of low quality in all indicators. CONCLUSIONS Investments in the work process of health teams, social cash transfer programs, and social conditions of the population are essential to improve the quality of the program of cervical cancer screening in Brazil.

RESUMO OBJETIVO Analisar se as variáveis demográficas, socioeconômicas e da organização dos serviços estão associadas à qualidade do rastreamento do câncer de colo uterino. MÉTODOS Inquérito realizado em serviços de saúde das cinco regiões brasileiras em 2012. A amostra foi composta por usuárias de unidades básicas de saúde participantes do Programa de Melhoria do Acesso e da Qualidade na Atenção Básica. As variáveis independentes analisadas foram: características socioeconômicas (contexto municipal); características demográficas (perfil de usuárias); e dois domínios relativos à organização dos serviços básicos (estrutura e processo de trabalho). A baixa qualidade do rastreamento foi avaliada por meio da falta de acesso, atraso na realização do exame e falta de recebimento de orientações. Análises bruta e ajustada por meio de regressão de Poisson avaliaram a associação entre os desfechos e as variáveis independentes. RESULTADOS A falta de acesso, atraso na realização do exame e falta de recebimento de orientações foram de 6,7%, 11,2% e 19,2%, respectivamente. Os problemas de qualidade foram menores de acordo com o aumento do Índice de Desenvolvimento Humano Municipal e da renda familiar per capita, aumentando com o porte populacional e a cobertura municipal da Estratégia Saúde da Família. A região Centro-Oeste do país apresentou as maiores ocorrências dos desfechos de baixa qualidade. As mulheres de raça indígena e amarela tiveram as maiores prevalências dos desfechos. As mulheres com companheiro, que recebiam o benefício do Programa Bolsa Família e tinham trabalho remunerado tiveram menos falta de acesso, menos atraso na realização do exame e menos falta de recebimento de orientações. O processo de trabalho adequado nos serviços de saúde diminuiu a probabilidade de baixa qualidade em todos os indicadores. CONCLUSÕES Investimentos em processo de trabalho das equipes de saúde, programas sociais de transferência de renda e condições sociais da população são essenciais para melhorar a qualidade do programa de rastreamento de colo de útero no Brasil.

Exame papanicolaou em gestantes: conhecimento dos enfermeiros atuantes em unidades de atenção primária à saúde / Papanicolau en el embarazo: el conocimiento de enfermeras que trabajan en unidades de atención primaria / Pap smears in pregnant women: knowledge of nurses working in units of primary health care

To investigate the nurses’ knowledge of gynecological Pap smears performed in pregnant women attending Primary Health Units (UAPS), Fortaleza-CE. Methods: a descriptive, cross-sectional study conducted in three UAP, with a sample of 27 nurses. Data were obtained through a questionnaire and the analysis used was the Epi-info program. Results: the data showed that the majority of nurses, 17 (62.97%), does not perform the gynecological examination in pregnant women. From nurses who perform, 3 (7.4%) make the collection incorrectly. About participating in trainings on prenatal and gynecological examination, 24 (88.8%) reported previous participation. Conclusion: thus, systematic and effective training aiming to overhaul the welfare practices that are established in the family health programs are necessary...

Investigar o conhecimento dos enfermeiros sobre o exame ginecológico Papanicolaou realizado em gestantes atendidas em Unidades de Atenção Primária à Saúde (UAPS) de Fortaleza-CE. Métodos: estudo descritivo, transversal, realizado em três UAPS, com amostra de 27 enfermeiros. Os dados foram obtidos por meio de questionário e para a análise utilizou-se o programa epi-info. Resultados: os dados mostraram que a maioria dos enfermeiros, 17 (62,97%), não realiza o exame ginecológico nas gestantes. Dos enfermeiros que realizam, três(7,4%) fazem a coleta de forma incorreta. No que se refere à participação em capacitações sobre pré-natal e exame ginecológico, 24 (88,8%) afirmaram ter participado anteriormente. Conclusão: dessa forma,fazem-se necessárias capacitações sistemáticas e eficazes com o intuito de reformular as práticas assistencialistas que se encontram estabelecidas nos programas de saúde da família...

Investigar el conocimiento de las enfermeras sobre el Papanicolaou realizado en mujeres embarazadas asistidas en las unidades Primaria de Salud (UAPS), Fortaleza-CE. Métodos: estudio descriptivo, transversal realizado en tres UAPS, con una muestra de 27 enfermeras. Los datos fueron obtenidos a través de un cuestionario y el análisis utilizó el programa Epi-Info. Resultados: los datos mostraron que la mayoría de las enfermeras, 17 (62,97%), no realiza un examen ginecológico en mujeres embarazadas. De las enfermeras que realizan, 3 (7,4%) hacen la recolección de forma incorrecta. Con respecto a la participación en la formación en la atención del prenatal y el examen ginecológico, 24(88,8%) informaron haber participado anteriormente. Conclusión: por lotanto, una formación sistemática y efectiva es necesaria con el objetivo de revisar las prácticas de bienestar que se establecen en los programas de salud familiar...

Validation of the Modification of the Prolonged Papanicolaou Stain for the Diagnosis of Cervical Cancer.

OBJECTIVES: To validate the modification of the prolonged Papanicolaou stain based on the quality control of time, units and staining stages (micro- and macroscopic), and on the stain reactivation based on the control. STUDY DESIGN: A prospective study was performed on 125,358 cervical smears in Lima (Peru). The microscopic quality control included evaluating the cytological characteristics through the staining quality index (SQI) and the quality criteria for samples described by the Bethesda System (TBS). The macroscopic quality control is based on the interslide staining as a set corresponding to a poststaining vertical angle. The stains were reactivated with the addition of 0.15 and 2 g of phosphotungstic acid for Orange G and EA-50, respectively. RESULTS: Both the nonneoplastic and the neoplastic findings comply with the quality criteria of the TBS (SQI value = 0.94). The yield per battery of staining fluctuated between 5,616 and 17,954 Pap smears, and the reactivation of stains produced a stain yield of up to four times the initial amount of the smears, saving USD 5,598.88 from 2013 to 2014. CONCLUSION: The modification of prolonged Papanicolaou staining is an excellent alternative, with a cost-benefit ratio that generates savings and a higher yield per battery of staining.

Assessment of the Validity and Reproducibility of the Pap Smear in Mexico: Necessity of a Paradigm Shift.

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: An assessment was performed of the quality of Pap readings in 19 cytology laboratories (CLs) in Mexico from the Cervical Cancer Screening Program. METHODS: Nine CLs were affiliated with the Health Ministry (SSA), and ten were affiliated with the Mexican Social Security Institute (IMSS). Two sets of 200 cervical cytology specimens were prepared, one set for each institution. Fourteen percent of the specimens were positive and six were inappropriate for diagnosis (3%). All cervical cytology specimens were processed in the cytopathology laboratory at the General Hospital of Mexico, and histopathology was available for each positive case. RESULTS: Thirty percent of the SSA reading centers had a sensitivity of at least 80%; however, not one of the ten IMSS laboratories evaluated reached this figure. Some reading centers had a sensitivity <65%, meaning that nearly half of the specimens with a cytology consistent with cervical neoplasm were not identified. DISCUSSION: Given these results, it is a priority to effect a paradigm shift combining various screening tests to improve adherence to standards and enhanced cost-effectiveness of the early detection of cervicouterine cancer (CC) in Mexico.

Follow-up of women with inadequate Pap smears: a prospective cohort study / Acompanhamento de mulheres com esfregaços de Papanicolaou inadequados: um estudo prospectivo de coorte

CONTEXT AND OBJECTIVE: Inadequate Pap smears do not provide satisfactory cell samples for evaluation, thus making it more difficult to detect cervical cytological abnormalities. The objective of this study was to determine the cytological and histological follow-up results from women with inadequate smear reports in primary healthcare centers in Santiago, Chile 2010-2011. DESIGN AND SETTING: Prospective cohort study at primary healthcare clinics in Santiago, Chile. METHODS: The population was taken from the “Cito-Expert" database of 2010. The data were then organized according to the cytological and histological follow-up results of 2,547 women with inadequate cervical cytological reports over the 12-month period. The samples were assigned to groups based on the cause of inadequacy (smears with endocervical cells alone; insufficient, hemorrhagic, inflammatory or poorly fixed samples; insufficient and hemorrhagic samples; or insufficient and inflammatory specimens). The data were analyzed using the “conditional probability tree diagram" and descriptive statistics. RESULT: Half of the women (n = 1,285) met the requirements of the Ministry of Health for repeating these inadequate smears, and 1,104 of these women had normal cytological results (85.9%). The detection rate for cervical lesions according to group ranged ...

CONTEXTO E OBJETIVO: Esfregaços inadequados de Papanicolaou não fornecem amostra satisfatória de células para avaliação, ficando assim mais difícil detectar anomalias citológicas cervicais. O objetivo deste estudo foi determinar os resultados de seguimento citológico e histológico de mulheres com relatórios de esfregaços inadequados nas unidades básicas de saúde em Santiago, Chile, 2010-2011. DESENHO E LOCAL: Estudo prospectivo de coorte em unidades básicas de saúde em Santiago, Chile. MÉTODOS: A população foi selecionada do banco de dados Cito-Expert em 2010. Na sequência, os dados foram organizados pelos resultados de seguimento citológico e histológico de 2.547 mulheres com relatórios inadequados de citologia cervical pelo período de 12 meses. As amostras foram atri-buídas a grupos com base na causa de inadequação (esfregaços com células endocervicais; amostras insuficientes, inflamatórias, ou com má fixação, amostras insuficientes e hemorrágicas, ou espéci-mes insuficientes e inflamatórios). Os dados foram analisados com base no “conditional probability tree diagram" e estatísticas descritivas. RESULTADOS: Metade das mulheres (n = 1.285) preencheram os requisitos ...

Follow-up of women with inadequate Pap smears: a prospective cohort study.

CONTEXT AND OBJECTIVE: Inadequate Pap smears do not provide satisfactory cell samples for evaluation, thus making it more difficult to detect cervical cytological abnormalities. The objective of this study was to determine the cytological and histological follow-up results from women with inadequate smear reports in primary healthcare centers in Santiago, Chile 2010-2011. DESIGN AND SETTING: Prospective cohort study at primary healthcare clinics in Santiago, Chile. METHODS: The population was taken from the "Cito-Expert" database of 2010. The data were then organized according to the cytological and histological follow-up results of 2,547 women with inadequate cervical cytological reports over the 12-month period. The samples were assigned to groups based on the cause of inadequacy (smears with endocervical cells alone; insufficient, hemorrhagic, inflammatory or poorly fixed samples; insufficient and hemorrhagic samples; or insufficient and inflammatory specimens). The data were analyzed using the "conditional probability tree diagram" and descriptive statistics. RESULT: Half of the women (n = 1,285) met the requirements of the Ministry of Health for repeating these inadequate smears, and 1,104 of these women had normal cytological results (85.9%). The detection rate for cervical lesions according to group ranged from 0% (smears with endocervical cells alone or insufficient and hemorrhagic specimens) to 4.1% (poor fixation). CONCLUSION: The large proportion of normal results justifies revision of the current clinical guidelines. The results showed that it is not necessary to repeat the Pap test early on, with the exception of inadequate hemorrhagic and inflammatory cytological results.