The Papanicolaou (Pap) smear is done to screen for malignant and premalignant lesions of the cervix. Human papilloma virus has been implicated in the pathogenesis of cervical malignancy. Other factors also place women at higher risk.

Incidental findings such as inflammation or infection may be noted on the Pap smear report. These conditions, when suspected, are best diagnosed by other means. See, for example, the examination of vaginal and cervical secretions.

The next sections discuss the accuracy of Pap smear techniques and how to interpret the Pap smear report.