The detection of genital tract infection by Papanicolaou-stained tests.

A variety of cytological changes suggestive of genital tract infection may be noted during microscopy of a Papanicolaou-stained cervical smear. The dilemma faced by cytopathologists is whether or not to report suspicious changes to the clinician responsible for the woman's care. This review examines the effectiveness of Papanicolaou-smear microscopy in the diagnosis of the more common sexually transmitted infections, and aims to encourage debate on the reporting of suggestive cytological changes.