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.
HPV; Prevention of anal neoplasia; Conventional cytology
