Intermediate
Technical
IVT
liquid-based cytology
Method of preparing cervical cell samples using liquid medium rather than direct smear technique for improved specimen quality.
Full Definition
Liquid-based cytology is a specimen preparation method where cervical cells are collected and suspended in a liquid preservative medium before processing. This technique reduces specimen inadequacy rates, allows for better cell preservation, and enables reflex HPV testing from the same sample. The method has largely replaced conventional Pap smears in many screening programs due to improved diagnostic accuracy and reduced need for repeat testing.
Usage
Usage note: Hyphenate when used as an adjective; may be abbreviated as LBC in technical contexts.
In Context
- "The laboratory transitioned to liquid-based cytology to reduce unsatisfactory specimen rates." — Laboratory quality improvement report
- "Liquid-based cytology specimens allow for concurrent HPV testing when indicated." — Screening protocol manual
Also known as
LBC
ThinPrep
Contrasted with
conventional cytology
direct smear
Don't confuse with
liquid biopsy