Which test screens for cervical cancer by examining cells collected from the cervix?

• A. Mammography
• B. Ophthalmoscopy
• C. Pap smear
• D. MUGA scan

Answer: (C)

Screening for cervical cancer is done by collecting and examining cervical cells for abnormal changes. The Pap smear does this by gently brushing cells from the cervix, especially from the transformation zone, onto a slide for microscopic cytology. By looking for precancerous changes such as cervical intraepithelial neoplasia, clinicians can detect problems early and intervene before cancer develops. This approach is different from the other tests listed, which image or assess other organs: mammography images breast tissue, ophthalmoscopy examines the inside of the eye, and a MUGA scan evaluates heart function. So the Pap smear is the test that screens for cervical cancer by examining cells collected from the cervix.