Management of Papanicolaou test results that lack endocervical cells.

Mrs. McTavish is a 25-year old patient whose Papanicolaou (Pap) test results have come back from the laboratory. The smear is described as satisfactory for evaluation; however, it is noted that an inadequate number of endocervical cells were present in the sample. The results of the patient’s past Pap tests have been satisfactory for evaluation and negative for abnormality. She is otherwise well. Her physical examination, including pelvic examination, showed nothing unusual.