VB
Vikas Bhardwaj
Medical Technologist, AIIMS New Delhi
Updated: Apr 17, 2026
**Core Concept**
The underlying principle being tested is the management of an inadequate **Pap smear** result, which is a screening test for **cervical cancer**. Inadequate cervical cytology refers to a sample that is not sufficient for evaluation, often due to insufficient cellularity or obscuring factors.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The correct follow-up for a patient with an inadequate Pap smear result involves re-testing, as the initial sample did not provide enough information to assess for **cervical dysplasia** or cancer. This ensures that any potential abnormalities are not missed.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** Incorrect because it may not be necessary for a patient with an inadequate result.
**Option B:** Incorrect as it is not the immediate next step for an inadequate result.
**Option C:** Incorrect because it is more invasive than necessary for an initial inadequate result.
**Option D:** This option is not provided, however, the correct answer typically involves re-testing.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
It's crucial to remember that an inadequate Pap smear result does not indicate the presence or absence of disease but rather that the sample was not sufficient for evaluation.
**Correct Answer:** D. Repeat Pap smear.