Figure 2.

ThinPrep® System (Hologic, Inc, Marlborough, MA) sample processing and analysis. Processing a Thin-Prep Pap test sample for analysis involves three essential steps: (i) Rotation of the filter within the sample vial creates currents in the fluid that separate debris and disperse mucus yet preserve cell morphology; (ii) A gentle vacuum (controlled by software for the ThinPrep Processor) created within the filter collects cells on the exterior surface of the membrane; (iii) After the cells are collected on the membrane, the filter is inverted and gently pressed against the microscope slide. Natural attraction and slight positive air pressure cause the cells to adhere to the slide, resulting in an even distribution of cells in a defined circular area.