Effects of dilute acetic acid on the cervical smear.

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.