Physical properties of acetic acid vital in evaluating the cervix for neoplastic changes.

Introduction: In a "developing country" the need exists for an inexpensive, simplistic yet sensitive screening procedure which furthermore, allows for the immediate referral of patients. Research has indicated that the acetic acid test is a most viable option. Screening, however, often occurs in less than ideal conditions thus implying the exposure of the acetic acid to various fluctuating elements.

Objective: Determining the influence of temperature, time and humidity on the pH of a 5% acetic acid solution.

Method: The effect of temperature, time and humidity on the pH of a 5% acetic acid solution was determined under controlled laboratory conditions utilizing the calculated molar conductance and dissociation constant.

Results: The pH of the 5% acetic acid solution remained a constant throughout exposure to the various elements.

Discussion: The results imply that the quality of acetic acid, on which many alternative screening methods and colposcopy are based, remains stable under varying conditions. This is important when screening is implemented in less than ideal conditions utilizing cervicography or the acetic acid test which are primarily dependent on acetic acid.