Knowledge Base › Troubleshooting Atlas › Cytology preparation
Air-drying artifact on Pap smears
Also known as: drying artifact, air-dry artifact
What it looks like
Cells appear shrunken and distorted with irregular edges. Background may show a mottled appearance.
Where it usually appears: Typically observed on Pap smears that have been left exposed to air for too long before fixation.
Likely causes
- Prolonged exposure to air during preparation
- Inadequate fixation timing
- Inconsistent slide handling practices
Immediate checks
- Check if slides were allowed to dry before fixation
- Inspect the fixation process timing
Corrective action
- Re-fix slides immediately if drying is suspected
- Review handling procedures with staff
Preventive action
- Ensure slides are fixed promptly after preparation
- Train staff on proper slide handling techniques
This atlas is for educational purposes for laboratory professionals. It does not replace your institutional SOPs, manufacturer instructions, validated protocols or pathologist judgment. Adapt any action to your laboratory and equipment.
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