[The data-processing tool: an aid to implementation of quality assurance in a department of pathology. The example of Pap smears].

Modern laboratory management software must be able to produce pathological reports for all specimens referred for diagnostic analysis, and must also be able to ensure improved quality for each step of the diagnostic process. Indices of diagnostic quality useful for staff members should be made available. The management software should enable user-friendly analysis and comparison in order to choose what kind of changes should to be applied for appropriate implementation of Quality Assurance procedures. This methodology is especially useful for Papsmears.