Relation between sampling device and detection of abnormality in cervical smears: a meta-analysis of randomised and quasi-randomised studies

Abstract

Key messages The Ayre spatula, Cytobrush, or cotton swab alone generally performed significantly worse than the combination of a spatula and Cytobrush or cotton swab, the extended tip spatula, or the Cervex brushNo substantial differences in sensitivity or positive predictive value were detected between the sampling methodsResults support the use of either the extended tip spatula, the combination of any spatula plus Cytobrush or cotton swab, or the Cervex brush for cervical screening Key messages The Ayre spatula, Cytobrush, or cotton swab alone generally performed significantly worse than the combination of a spatula and Cytobrush or cotton swab, the extended tip spatula, or the Cervex brushNo substantial differences in sensitivity or positive predictive value were detected between the sampling methodsResults support the use of either the extended tip spatula, the combination of any spatula plus Cytobrush or cotton swab, or the Cervex brush for cervical screening