Value of conventional cytology in the presence of macroscopic lesions of the anal canal

Abstract

Abstract Objectives To verify the value of conventional cytology for the diagnosis of macroscopic lesions of the anal canal and to describe the limitations of the samples. Method We evaluated 395 conventional cytology samples obtained by brushing the anal canal of patients (predominantly male, HIV-positive) and compared them to the presence of macroscopic lesions of the anal canal observed under anorectal examination. Results Of the total, 91.6% of samples were classified as adequate. Cellular elements representative of the anal transformation zone were observed in 63.5% of samples. Sensitivity in the presence or absence of cellularity was 80% and 31%, respectively. Conclusion The study demonstrates the feasibility of using conventional anal cytology in outpatients.