The ThinPrep^® Pap Test (Liquid-Based Cytology)

The ThinPrep Pap Test is a liquid-based cytology (LBC) test that employs an alcohol based fluid transport medium to immediately preserve cells, allowing for out of vial Human papillomavirus testing and automated slide processing which eliminates debris and distributes a representative portion of cells on a slide in a thin, even layer when required.²

A ThinPrep Pap test slide is clearer and easier to read as it minimises obscuring blood and mucous, to provide increased accuracy for assessment of the cells. The ThinPrep process ultimately improves the quality of the sample, preparing a slide that is clearer for diagnostic review.^2,3*

The ThinPrep Pap test sample is the complete solution with multiple testing options performed from one vial: Human Papillomavirus (HPV), Liquid Based Cytology, and also chlamydia and gonorrhoea, Trichomonas vaginalis and Mycoplasma genitalium.^2,4

Proven effectiveness

Research shows the ThinPrep Pap test as more likely to detect high-grade abnormalities compared to the conventional pap smear. In Australia, the ThinPrep system is clinically proven to be 27% more effective at detecting high-grade abnormalities and 56% more effective at finding low-grade abnormalities compared to the conventional Pap smear. In addition there is a 94% decrease in unsatisfactory reports with the ThinPrep Pap test.^5-7

Reproducible, representative sample

With the ThinPrep Pap test, the clinician collects the Cervical Screening Test sample using either a broom-like device or the brush/spatula combination. Instead of smearing a portion of the sample onto a slide, the collection device is rinsed in the ThinPrep vial, capturing virtually the entire cell sample. The specimen is then sent to the laboratory, where an HPV test is performed, and when required an automated processor prepares a slide by dispersing and filtering the sample and then placing a representative sample on the slide.

Improved slide quality

In addition to the ThinPrep Pap test’s improved slide quality, Hologic’s proprietary technology eliminates common errors associated with preparing a specimen. ^2*

Reimbursement