A cell collection device

A packaging apparatus for administering a retrievable probe to a patient comprises a probe 108 tethered to the distal end of a retrieval thread 110 that is packaged in a bundled state together with the probe, and an insertion applicator device 101 tethered to the proximal end of the thread for releasably stowing the probe and bundled thread and deploying them into an orifice or body cavity of a patient. The probe may be a cell collection device, e.g. an abrasive sponge within a swallowable soluble capsule for oesophageal biopsy. The applicator may be configured to stow and release two separately bundled sections or coiled lengths 111, 112 of the retrieval thread, one length entering the patient when the probe is administered and the other remaining outside the body, e.g. releasing both portions simultaneously via a sliding release mechanism 102, 104b, 207b. The applicator may have a window or cut-out (104c, Fig. 1a) for viewing the undeployed capsule sponge probe.