§ Mr. CousinsTo ask the Secretary of State for Health in what circumstances pathologists reporting cervical cytology are permitted to advise on follow-ups without a record of the visual appearance of the cervix. [3259]
§ Ms JowellA record of the visual appearance of the cervix is a requirement on the pathology request form only in cases of suspected abnormality. Since the purpose of the cervical smear test is to detect abnormalities at a very early stage, a cervical smear can be classed abnormal in cases where the appearance of the cervix remains normal. Pathologists are expected to advise on follow-up action on the basis of an abnormal smear alone, whether or not there is a record of the visual appearance of the cervix. Where the request form explicitly states that the cervix has not been visualised, pathologists should always advise that follow-up action be taken.