Comparative Study of Cervical Cancer Screening by Pap Smear and Liquid-Based Cytology and Its Clinical Correlation

Abstract

Background: Cervical cancer remains a leading cause of morbidity and mortality among women, particularly in developing countries. Early detection through effective screening is crucial.Objectives: To compare the diagnostic efficacy of conventional Pap smear and Liquid Based Cytology (LBC) and to correlate findings with histopathological examination (HPE). Methods: This prospective study was conducted on 100 high-risk women aged 21-65 years attending the gynecology outpatient department of Nalanda Medical College and Hospital. Paired samples for Pap smear and LBC were collected from each participant. Colposcopy-guided biopsy was performed, and histopathology was considered the gold standard. Results: LBC-detected 27% abnormal cases compared to 17% by Pap smear. Sensitivity of LBC was significantly higher 93.10%) than Pap smear (58.62%), while Specificity was 100% for both methods. Diagnostic accuracy was 98% for LBC and 88% for Pap smear. LBC also showed improved detection of LSIL and HSIL lesions and fewer unsatisfactory samples. Conclusion: LBC is superior to conventional Pap smear in detecting cervical epithelial abnormalities and can be considered a more reliable screening modality.