During Pap testing, which sampling is used for cervical cytology and HPV testing?

• A. Blood sample.
• B. Urine sample.
• C. Cervical cells collected for cytology and HPV testing.
• D. Saliva sample.

Answer: (C)

The idea being tested is that Pap testing relies on obtaining cervical cells, not fluids from other parts of the body. Cervical cytology requires the cells collected from the cervix to look for abnormal cellular changes under the microscope. When HPV testing is done as part of co-testing, the same cervical cell sample can be tested for high‑risk HPV DNA/RNA, or a closely related sample can be used, depending on the lab protocol. In short, these tests derive from cervical cells collected from the cervix. Samples like blood, urine, or saliva do not provide the necessary cervical cellular material for Pap cytology or reliable HPV detection.