How Is Cytology Performed

Scrape or brush cytology: This procedure involves scraping or brushing some cells from the organ or tissue that’s being tested. Some areas where doctors use scrape or brush cytology include the breathing tubes that lead to the lungs, cervix (for a Pap test), esophagus, mouth and stomach.

What is an example of cytology?

For example, a common example of diagnostic cytology is the evaluation of cervical smears (referred to as the Papanicolaou test or Pap smear). In order for cytologic evaluation to be carried out, the material to be examined is spread onto glass slides and stained.

How long does a cytology test take?

Some routine cytology screenings could take as little as 1 to 2 days to get your results while other tests could take 1 to 2 weeks. Factors that affect how long it takes to get cytology test results include: The need to look at more tissue or cells.