Which cells must be present on a Pap smear to be classified as satisfactory?

In a Pap smear, for the specimen to be classified as satisfactory, it is essential for squamous epithelial cells and endocervical cells to be present. Squamous epithelial cells line the cervix and vagina, and their presence indicates that the sample has captured cells from the mucosal surfaces that are necessary for evaluating cervical health. Endocervical cells, which originate from the canal of the cervix, are also important because they provide insight into the health of the endocervical area and help in identifying any potential abnormalities.

The combination of squamous epithelial cells and endocervical cells ensures that the sample is comprehensive enough for cytological analysis, which is crucial for accurately assessing the risk of cervical cancer or detecting precursor lesions. The presence of both cell types in the sample indicates that the correct anatomical regions have been sampled, contributing to the validity of the Pap smear results. Without these cells, the test may not provide sufficient diagnostic information, thereby affecting patient care.