Cervical cancer screening: Transition to liquid based cytology

The Cervical Cancer Screening Laboratory is transitioning from a conventional cytology collection method to liquid based cytology (LBC) to:

• Increase capacity for reporting Pap test results
• Speed up the return of conventional cytology Pap test results

Earlier this year, a number of high-volume clinics made this transition. To take advantage of the faster LBC processing times, family doctors are now able to order LBC Pap test supplies online (including plastic spatulas and cytobrushes) and complete self-directed training for sample collection. Conventional Pap test supplies (glass slides) are no longer available.

The sampling technique for LBC is the same as for both conventional cytology. It is not expected that patients will perceive any difference during the examination.

It is not necessary to repeat Pap tests with LBC for patients who are waiting for conventional cytology screening results. Patients experiencing symptoms should be referred directly to colposcopy – no screening test result is required. Screening is for asymptomatic patients.

There is no change to how your office will receive results. 

Please visit the Cervical Cancer Screening Laboratory web page to learn more and to access the training materials and information on how to order LBC kits for your office.