OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effect of 5% acetic acid on the cells and cellular content of cervical smears. STUDY DESIGN: A randomized, controlled trial was performed with 42 patients in each group. The study group received acetic acid application to the cervix followed by a smear, while the sequence was reversed in the control group. Cytologic evaluation of the smears was done without knowledge of the group allocation in each case. RESULTS: The group in which acetic acid was applied before the smear was taken showed significantly poorer staining properties of the smear (P < .0001) and also significantly lower cellular content (P = .0006). CONCLUSION:Acetic acid has adverse effects on the cervical smear and should be applied after the smear is taken.
RCT Entities:
OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effect of 5% acetic acid on the cells and cellular content of cervical smears. STUDY DESIGN: A randomized, controlled trial was performed with 42 patients in each group. The study group received acetic acid application to the cervix followed by a smear, while the sequence was reversed in the control group. Cytologic evaluation of the smears was done without knowledge of the group allocation in each case. RESULTS: The group in which acetic acid was applied before the smear was taken showed significantly poorer staining properties of the smear (P < .0001) and also significantly lower cellular content (P = .0006). CONCLUSION:Acetic acid has adverse effects on the cervical smear and should be applied after the smear is taken.