Australian Dental Council (ADC) Practice Test 2026 - Free ADC Practice Questions and Study Guide

Question: 1 / 1390

Exfoliative cytology is least helpful in diagnosing which condition?

Herpes simplex infection

Exfoliative cytology is a diagnostic method that involves the collection and examination of cells shed from mucosal surfaces. This technique can be particularly valuable in certain oral conditions, such as oral squamous cell carcinoma and leukoplakia, where the cellular changes can be indicative of dysplasia or malignancy.

In the case of herpes simplex infection, the condition often presents with vesicles and ulcerations that may not yield representative exfoliated cells for an accurate diagnosis through cytology. The detection of herpes simplex virus typically relies on other methods, such as viral culture, PCR, or serological tests, rather than cytological exam. This limitation makes exfoliative cytology less effective for diagnosing herpes simplex infection compared to the other conditions listed, where cellular changes can be identified more reliably with this technique.

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Oral candidiasis

Leukoplakia

Oral squamous cell carcinoma

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