Gynecological Infections

Female Reproductive System

“…Histiocytes are commonly encountered in Pap tests during exodus (days 6-10) and are considered a normal finding during the perimenstrual period. They are also commonly encountered in patients with prior cervical procedures, and Polymorphonuclear leukocytes (neutrophils) and lymphocytes are the most commonly encountered inflammatory cells seen in Pap tests [1,15]. Neutrophils are slightly larger (~10 uM in diameter), with multilobed nuclei and scant pale cytoplasm.…”

“…Bacterial vaginosis is a polymicrobial infectious state caused by an overgrowth of anaerobic bacteria, with Gardnerella vaginalis being the most common microorganism [15]. In contrast to the thin rod shape of lactobacilli, Gardnerella are coccobacilli.…”

“…Squamous cells often show associated reactive change, and associated acute inflammation is often present. Actinomyces are Gram-positive filamentous bacteria commonly present in the Pap test of patients with intrauterine devices, and infections are often asymptomatic [1,15]. Actinomyces presents as dense balls of radiating filamentous bacteria, giving a "fluffy ball" or "dust bunny" appearance (Fig.…”

“…Trichomonas vaginalis is a common parasitic sexually transmitted infection, which may be asymptomatic or associated with vaginal discharge [1,15]. Trichomonads are small oval to pear-shaped organisms, 15-30 uM in size, which may be present singly or in small aggregates.…”

Cytomorphology of unusual infectious entities in the Pap test

“…Molluscum contagiosum (MCV) is caused by a member of the double-stranded DNA poxvirus family [ Table 7 ]. [ 28 ] The MCV is a viral infection that is highly contagious, but self-limiting. It accounts for approximately 1% of all diagnoses of skin and rarely mucous membrane infections, and affects mostly children and young adults.…”