The Pap smear is a simple test designed to detect cervical cancer, pre-cancerous cells, certain viral infections, and other cell irregularities in women. It was developed in the 1930s by Dr. George Papanicolaou, and involves taking a smear of cells on microscope slides — hence the name "Pap smear." It's an important tool in the fight against cancer, since cervical cancer is the second most common cause of cancer-related disease and death among women the world over.
A Well Established Test
The Pap smear test is a very well established and widely used test, and it's generally a highly effective method for cervical cancer screening. About 2 to 3 million abnormal Pap smear results are found each year in the U.S. Most of these results indicate the early stages of cervical cancer.
The Pap smear test can detect more than 90 percent of early cell irregularities, but unfortunately the results of a Pap smear can be misread or misinterpreted.
How a Pap Smear Works
A gynecologist or other skilled healthcare professional takes a sample of cells from the outer opening of the cervix, using a special spatula. The cells are wiped onto a glass slide and checked in a medical laboratory for abnormalities. A cytotechnologist (a worker trained in the identification of cell irregularities) stains the cells and examines them under a microscope. Abnormal cells are marked for a pathologist, an M.D. who determines the diagnosis.
The accuracy of the cytotechnologists' and pathologists' work must meet certain laboratory standards and regulations.
When There Is a Misdiagnosis
Unfortunately, it is not rare for cases of cervical cancer or other serious conditions to be missed in a Pap smear screening, whether by human error at the stages of sampling, laboratory work-up, pathology, or by other means.
A misread Pap smear test causing a misdiagnosis, failure to diagnose, or delayed diagnosis at an advanced stage of cervical cancer can greatly reduce a woman's opportunity to receive effective treatment. In many cases, the only remaining treatments in later stages are a hysterectomy and/or chemotherapy.
If you suspect that you have been the victim of a misdiagnosed Pap smear, contact Perey Law Group, PLLC. Our lawyers have the experience and familiarity with cancer misdiagnosis and other types of medical malpractice cases to ensure effectively represent you or your loved one.
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Perey Law Group, PLLC
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Seattle, WA 98109
Phone: (206) 443-7600
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