Final answer:
A Pap smear is a diagnostic procedure where cells from the uterine cervix are stained and examined to detect abnormal tissue, indicating potential cervical cancer or infection.
Step-by-step explanation:
A simple diagnostic procedure used to differentiate normal from abnormal cervical or vaginal tissue using a staining technique is known as a Pap smear.
During a Pap smear, a doctor collects a small sample of cells from a patient's uterine cervix and sends it to a medical laboratory. There, a cytotechnologist applies a special stain to the cells and examines them under a microscope to look for any changes that may indicate cervical cancer or a microbial infection.
Additionally, if a Pap smear reveals abnormal cells, it may be followed by additional testing such as a biopsy to confirm the findings. It's essential for early detection and management of cervical cancer, and can also detect human papillomavirus (HPV) infections, which are linked to the development of cervical cancer.