Principles of Exfoliative Cytology

Cytopathology

An overview of exfoliative cytology, including specimen collection, Pap smear techniques, classification of smears, and staining procedures.

Cytology Laboratory Science Pathology

15 Questions Medium Ages 18+ Aug 16, 2026

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About this Study Set

This study set covers Cytopathology through 15 practice questions. An overview of exfoliative cytology, including specimen collection, Pap smear techniques, classification of smears, and staining procedures. Every question includes the correct answer so you can learn as you go — pick any format above to get started.

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Browse all 15 questions from the Principles of Exfoliative Cytology study set below. Each question shows the correct answer — select a study format above to practice interactively.

1 What is the primary definition of exfoliative cytology?

A The study of blood components
B The microscopic study of cells shed from body surfaces
C The surgical removal of tissue for biopsy
D The analysis of genetic mutations

2 Which classification of smear indicates the presence of minor atypia but no evidence of malignant changes?

A Class I
B Class II
C Class III
D Class IV

3 What is the minimum volume of body fluid specimen desirable for optimal cytological evaluation?

A 5 ml
B 10 ml
C 20 ml
D 50 ml

4 Which additive may be used to reduce clotting in body fluid specimens?

A EDTA
B Sodium citrate
C Heparin
D Formalin

5 In the Papanicolaou staining method, what color does Harris hematoxylin stain the nuclear chromatin?

A Orange
B Pink
C Blue to dark purple
D Green

6 Which of the following is considered a primary indication for a Pap smear?

A Detection of early cervical cancer or precancerous lesions
B Treatment of bacterial infections
C Diagnostic imaging of the pelvic region
D Assessment of blood glucose levels

7 What is the primary purpose of adding a fixative to a cytological specimen?

A To increase the size of the cells
B To preserve and maintain the form and structure of elements
C To stain the cytoplasm automatically
D To remove excess debris

8 Which of these is a common mounting medium used for permanent slide preparation?

A Xylene
B Ethanol
C Eukitt
D Saline

9 What type of smear is specifically useful for hormonal cytology evaluation?

A Vaginal pool smear
B Sputum smear
C Tzanck smear
D Gastric washing

10 Which class of smear is defined as positive for cancer, where cells are obviously malignant?

A Class II
B Class III
C Class IV
D Class V

11 What is the recommended fixative concentration for ethanol in cytological smears?

A 50%
B 70%
C 95%
D 100%

12 In liquid-based cytology, what are two common preparations mentioned?

A Pap and Giemsa
B ThinPrep and SurePath
C Gram and Acid-Fast
D Tzanck and PAS

13 Which tool is commonly used for scraping cells from the cervix?

A Forceps
B Ayre spatula
C Scalpel
D Needle

14 What is the target structure for the OG-6 (Orange G) stain?

A Nuclear chromatin
B Keratinized superficial cells
C RBCs
D Nucleoli

15 Which technique involves introducing saline into a cavity, agitating it, and aspirating it?

A Scraping
B Brushing
C Washing and Lavage
D Spontaneous exfoliation

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