Synopsis

This book is intended as a practical primer on the Pap test. Using bold text, tables, and highlighted areas, this book offers a user-friendly text on Pap test fundamentals so readers may find specific information effortlessly. The book is a useful tool for cytotechnologists and cytopathologists, as well as those in training. Readers preparing for various proficiency and licensing examinations will also find helpful information throughout.

Reviewer: Xiao Yun Wang, BS, MD(University of Kansas Medical Center)
Description: This concise and compact paperback details the clinical and laboratory aspects of the Pap test as it is used today. It employs an outline format with interspersed black-and-white images, tables, and figures, to present the topic in a user-friendly manner.
Purpose: As stated in the preface, the authors intend this to be a basic practical primer of the Pap test that also functions as a quick reference guide. Clinical information, such as the diagnostic implications of various lesions, is provided. In addition, the authors hope that the book may help those who plan to take proficiency and licensing examinations.
Audience: The audience includes all who are involved in evaluating the Pap test, cytotechnologists and cytopathologists, as well as those who are in training.
Features: The book is divided into brief chapters, each only 3 to 17 pages long. Traditional topics, such as the Bethesda System, liquid-based and conventional cytology, human papillomavirus and molecular identification techniques, and squamous and glandular lesions of the cervix, make up the bulk of the book. Each chapter is organized into sections that feature clinical information, diagnostic cytologic features and variations, benign and neoplastic mimickers, differential diagnosis, and management issues. Images, some with histologic correlation, and tables and figures are placed appropriately throughout. Although the images are black and white, they are of high quality and illustrate the topic with clarity. Two novel chapters ("A Short Dictionary of the Pap Test" and "Analogies in the Pap Test: Of Cornflakes and Raisins") may benefit those new to the subject. They succinctly define key words and phrases that are often thrown about by veteran cytologists. Another strong point is Appendix 1, which is an image overview of the cells of the Pap test. These are different from the slides in the main text; thus providing a second view.
Assessment: This is an excellent quick reference for anyone involved or interested in gynecologic cytology. It is packed with useful information, organized in a very accessible manner, which makes it an ideal benchside reference for cytopathologists and cytotechnologists at all levels of training.