Objective: To compare the sensitivity for squamous intraepithelial lesions (SILs) using AutoCyte PREP (TriPath Imaging, Burlington, North Carolina) thin-layer slides with the sensitivity for using conventional Pap smears.
Study design: Results for 10,367 cases for the period January 1, 1999, through April 15, 1999, using conventional Pap smears were compared to results of 2,231 cases evaluated using AutoCyte PREP thin-layer slides for the same period in 2000. Biopsy follow-up data were reviewed when available.
Results: The overall quality of cellular presentation was much improved using AutoCyte PREP. The number of unsatisfactory and "satisfactory but limited by" (SBLB) cases was significantly reduced as compared with that in the population evaluated using conventional Pap smears. Evaluation of AutoCyte PREP slides also yielded a significant improvement in the detection of SILs. Biopsy follow-up confirmed the specificity of the results.
Conclusion: In routine use, AutoCyte PREP is both practical and significantly more effective in the detection of SIL as compared with conventional Pap smears. The significantly improved reduction of unsatisfactory and SBLB cases and increased detection of disease confirm earlier publications of results using a manual preparation method.