What routine examination is performed to detect precancerous changes?

The Pap smear is a crucial routine examination designed to detect precancerous changes, specifically in the cervical cells. This screening test is instrumental in identifying abnormalities that could lead to cervical cancer if left untreated. During the procedure, cells are collected from the cervix and examined microscopically for any atypical changes, thereby enabling early intervention and management.

While breast examination and mammograms are vital in screening for breast cancer, they do not focus on cervical changes. A routine breast examination aids in detecting lumps or changes in breast tissue, while a mammogram is an X-ray specific to breast tissue that helps in identifying breast tumors. The skin test mentioned typically refers to allergy tests or tuberculosis screenings, which are unrelated to detecting precancerous conditions. Therefore, the Pap smear's specific role in cervical health makes it the correct choice for detecting precancerous changes.