Cells found in cervico-vaginal smears

Question 1

These polygonal squamous cells measure 45-50 μm in diameter and are usually identified by the presence of pale, pink-staining cytoplasm and dark pyknotic nuclei, less than 6 μ in diameter.

Answer 1

Mature superficial cells

Question 2

It is characteristic of superficial vaginal cells under estrogen influence (this is not, however, a reliable index of maturation).

Answer 2

True acidophilia

Question 3

This may be observed due to the drying of smears especially before fixation, prolapse and drying of vaginal epithelium, infection and chemicals.

Answer 3

Pseudo-acidophilia

Question 4

These are medium sized polyhedral or elongated cells with basophilic vacuolated cytoplasm.

Answer 4

Intermediate cells

Question 5

These are round to oval cells with small dense basophilic cytoplasm, and a total cell diameter of 15-30 μm.

Answer 5

Parabasal cells

Question 6

They are smaller than intermediate cells, and have a larger vesicular nucleus. They are normally found from two weeks of age to puberty, after childbirth, with abortions and after menopause.

Answer 6

Parabasal cells

Question 7

These are boat-shaped intermediate cells with strong tendency to fold or curl on edges. Their presence suggests a combined estrogen- progesterone effect. They are found in the latter half of the menstrual cycle, during pregnancy and menopause.

Answer 7

Navicular cells

Question 8

they are round, oval or boat-shaped cells with translucent basophilic cytoplasm observed greatest at the center of the cell, due to glycogen accumulation, pushing the nucleus to the side or towards the cell membrane.

Answer 8

Pregnancy cells

Question 9

These are small cells, slightly cylindrical with less basophilic cytoplasm, occurring in tightly packed groups of 3 or more.

Answer 9

Endometrial cell

Question 10

They are found during and 1-10 days after menstruation, and are shed in response to ovarian hormones.

Answer 10

Endometrial cell

Question 11

It occurs in large groups or small sheets. The cytoplasm is usually stained pale blue/gray and is finely vacuolated, often with indistinct cell borders and nuclei with finely granular chromatin. They may present a honeycomb appearance when viewed on end.

Answer 11

Endocervical glandular cells