Comparison of ThinPrep and cytospin preparations in the evaluation of exfoliative cytology specimens

Abstract

TP was preferred over CS in the majority of cases by both cytotechnologists and pathologists. Cellularity, screening time, and specimen preparation were comparable, although the latter was easier to standardize in TP. In abnormal cases, TP was found to be 3 times more helpful than CS in rendering a definitive diagnosis of malignancy. TP, however, was associated with certain artifacts that cytologists must become familiar with when examining such preparations. Although TP was superior to CS in most cases, the application of both methods may be helpful in selected cases in which the TP diagnosis is not conclusive. Finally, TP was found to be more cost effective than CS.