We’re gonna have a good time.
Dr. Papanicolau is revered as the prime force behind the discovery that cervicovaginal smears could be used to detect uterine cancers and precancers, greatly decreasing the incidence of cervical cancer and saving many women’s lives. More than 60 years later Pap tests (actual smears are typically no longer done, in favor of a liquid-based slide technology) complement molecular studies in continuing to detect cytologic abnormalities before they can turn into carcinoma.
You are probably asking, “how can I celebrate Dr. Pap’s birthday?” (aside from going out and getting drunk, which many are probably thinking of anyway). The American Society of Cytotechnology recommends several ways to commemorate his birthday (presents are out, since he’s been dead for 47 years):
Proudly wear t-shirts celebrating (the occasion)
Bake cookies decorated as various types of cells and share with colleagues
Create and play games like Cytojeopardy with your staff - it’s both fun and educational
The cookie idea is actually kind of cool. Our clinical lab did this a few weeks ago in conjunction with some contest or other. One of the best cookies was designed to look like a leukemic blast cell. I imagine it was tasty too, though I was not invited to sample the entries.
Personally, I am going to celebrate Dr. P.'s birthday by not looking at any Pap tests, a necessary but brain cramp-inducing part of my job.
