External quality assurance for cervical cytology in developing countries. Experience in Peru and Nicaragua.

Given interest from the professionals concerned, an external quality assurance scheme for cervical cytology can successfully be introduced in developing countries. This is a very important precondition if screening programs are to be expanded and decreases in mortality from cervical cancer are to occur in developing countries. Nicaragua and Peru have been experimenting with an external quality assurance system adapted from the Scottish and Northern Ireland scheme. It has been received with enthusiasm and acceptance and has helped cytology laboratories in these countries focusing on quality issues. Nevertheless, a successful quality control scheme that is to result in improvements in the quality of professionals' diagnostic skills needs to be accompanied by a remedial program for subperformers.