| Understanding Pap Smears | |
|
A pap smear is a screening test for abnormal cervical cells and is an important tool to detect changes that may lead to cervical cancer. Most women should start having pap smears when they become sexually active. A pap smear is NOT a diagnosis and is not 100% reliable. If results are abnormal, it only reveals which cases need to be investigated more thoroughly. Patients in the high-risk group include those: with intercourse at an early age, multiple sex partners, with a history of HPV (Human Papilloma Virus, venereal warts), and smokers. Descriptive Terms Normal
Only normal cells are seen ASCUS
Atypical Cells of Undetermined Significance.Some cells may not be normal, but usually nothing is significantly wrong. The changes of the cell are mild. SIL
Squamous Intraepithelial Lesion. Some cells show certain distinct changes, which are called dysplasia. A. Low Grade SIL
Cells which show mild changes, including mild dysplasia and changes associated with HPV (Human Papilloma Virus). These changes rarely progress to cancer. B. High Grade SIL
Cells that show more severe changes, including moderate or severe dysplasia. These may occasionally progress to cancer if not tested. Cancer
Cells that have progressed beyond dysplasia and become invasive. Any abnormal finding or findings of ASCUS showing that cells may not be normal require further tests. This may be as simple as a repeat pap test in a few weeks or months. Sometimes a doctor will do an exam called colposcopy to decide if you need treatment. Colposcopy is done in our office with a special microscope called a colposcope. Your doctor will swab your cervix with special solutions to see the changes that need to be biopsied. In some cases, the doctor may do a biopsy even if nothing is seen on colposcopy. A biopsy removes some of the abnormal cells for further study and may cause slight discomfort. After a diagnosis is made, treatment is recommended based on your individual situation and pathology results. |
|
