Method for evaluating cytopathology specimens

Abstract

Cytopathology specimens such as cervical Pap smears, are evaluated using oblique illumination of the specimens (preferably by multiple beams) rather than the axial illumination of standard compound microscopes. The result is improved visualization of the specimens, increased light penetration through the specimens, increased depth of field and enhanced contrast and resolution

what is claimed:  
     
         1 . A method of evaluating a cytopathology specimen containing cells comprising the steps of. 
 providing said cytopathology specimen;    staining said specimen;    disposing said stained specimen in an optical system;    obliquely illuminating said specimen by one or more light beams; and    identifying abnormal cells,    
     
     
         2 . The method of  claim 1  wherein said identification of abnormal cells is by human visual observation.  
     
     
         3 . The method of  claim 1  further comprising the step of recording the image of said illuminated specimen.  
     
     
         4 . The method of  claim 3  wherein said identification of abnormal cells is by analysis of said recorded image.  
     
     
         5 . The method of  claim 1  wherein said specimen is disposed in an optical system having an optical axis and said specimen is illuminated by a plurality of light beams, each said beam making an oblique angle with said optical axis, said beams angularly distributed about said axis.  
     
     
         6 . The method of  claim 1  wherein said specimen contains one or more clusters of cells.  
     
     
         7 . The method of  claim 3  wherein said image is recorded by digitally capturing said image.  
     
     
         8 . The method of  claim 7  wherein said identification of abnormal cells is by analysis of said digitally captured image.