Final answer:
Cervical biopsy samples are classified using the Bethesda classification, which categorizes cervical cell abnormalities including potential precancerous and cancerous changes identified through Pap smear and subsequent microscopic examination by a pathologist.
Step-by-step explanation:
Samples from a cervical biopsy are classified based on the Bethesda classification. This system categorizes the findings of cervical cytology, including any presence of abnormalities that suggest a precancerous state or cancer itself. When a Pap smear reveals the presence of abnormal cells, such as koilocytes which indicate HPV infection, a biopsy may be conducted for a definitive diagnosis. During this biopsy, the tissue sample is microscopically examined by a pathologist to identify if cancerous changes are present and if so, they are typed according to the tissue of origin and also by characteristics like cell size and shape.
The Bethesda system helps in classifying the results of the Pap smear by the degree of abnormality. Cells showing changes due to HPV, such as koilocytosis, and cancer cells are some findings that will be categorized using this nomenclature.