Which cellular change is typical of 'Atrophy' in a Pap smear from a postmenopausal woman?
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Correct answer: High N/C ratio parabasal cells with bland chromatin
Estrogen deficiency in menopause leads to the thinning of the squamous epithelium. The smear becomes 'atrophic,' characterized by a predominance of smaller, round parabasal cells rather than the larger, mature superficial or intermediate cells.
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