Smear layer Health Dictionary

Smear Layer: From 1 Different Sources


a layer of microcrystalline and organic particle debris that remains on the hard tissues of the teeth whenever they are cut. It may be important in assisting or preventing the penetration of bacteria into the dentinal tubules. The success of root canal treatment depends on the complete removal of the smear layer with a *chelating agent such as EDTA, but its presence may be useful in restorative dentistry.
Health Source: Oxford | Concise Colour Medical Dictionary
Author: Jonathan Law, Elizabeth Martin

Cervical Smear

This screening test detects abnormal changes in the cells of the cervix (see CERVIX UTERI), enabling an affected woman to have early treatment. The National Health Service has arrangements to check women regularly. A woman’s ?rst test should be within six months of her ?rst experience of intercourse and thereafter at three-yearly intervals for the rest of her life. The test is simple, with some cells being scraped o? the cervix with a spatula and the tissue then being examined microscopically.... cervical smear

Germ Layer

Any one of the three discrete varieties of body tissue that develop in the early stages of growth of the EMBRYO. Development of the layers can be followed throughout the embryo’s stages of growth and specialisation into the body’s full range of tissues and organs (see ECTODERM; ENDODERM; MESODERM).... germ layer

Smear

A specimen for microscopic examination prepared by spreading a thin film of cells on to a glass slide.... smear

Blood Smear

See blood film.... blood smear

Cervical Smear Test

A test to detect cervical dysplasia (abnormal changes in the cells of the cervix) that could develop into cervical cancer (see cervix, cancer of). A smear test also detects viral infections of the cervix, such as herpes simplex and papilloma (see warts, genital). The test should be carried out 6 months after a woman starts to have sexual intercourse, with a repeat test 6–12 months later, and then every 3 years.

A sample of cells is taken from the surface of the cervix using a spatula and examined under a microscope.

If cells appear normal, nothing further needs to be done.

If cells show dysplasia, further investigations may be required.... cervical smear test

Pap Smear

See cervical smear test.... pap smear

Four-layer System

a continuous compression bandage consisting of four layers that are applied and left in situ for up to seven days to treat venous leg ulcers, increasing the chance of healing by up to 30%. Thorough assessment of the patient’s status must be undertaken before the application.... four-layer system

Malpighian Layer

the stratum germinativum: one of the layers of the *epidermis.... malpighian layer



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