A buccal smear (pronounced "buckle") is the painless removal of a sample of cells from the lining of the mouth (inside of the cheek) for study.
Alternative Names:
Sex chromatin test
How the test is performed:
The health care provider will gently scrape the inside of the cheek with a small spatula to collect cells for testing.
How to prepare for the test:
Rinse, wash and swab the mouth as instructed for the particular test ordered.
How the test will feel:
You will feel a scraping sensation as cells are removed from the cheek.
Why the test is performed:
This procedure is used to obtain cells for DNA and chromosome testing for several genetic disorders. It can be used for rapid analysis in the newborn to determine gender or chromosomal abnormalities.
Review Date: 12/21/2004
Reviewed By: Celeste Krauss, M.D., Board Certified Clinical Genetics, Clinical Cytogenetics and Pediatrics. Founding Fellow, American College of Medical Genetics. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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