*2.9. Cytology*

The physician-collected ThinPrep PreservCyt cervical specimens were processed in the ThinPrep 2000 machine (Cytyc Corporation, Boxborough, Mass). All liquid-based cytology slides were stained according to the Pap method and all cytologic diagnosis were performed by trained specialist biotechnicians, following automated Focal Point evaluation of all slides. In case of abnormal cytology, a dedicated pathologist from the Cytology Unit of IEO reviewed cytology slides to confirm diagnosis. Results were reported according to the 2001 Bethesda Reporting System.
