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Abnormal Pap Smears
Services in Mesa and Chandler, Arizona
Abnormal Pap smears are a common concern for many women. It is important to understand the possible causes of an abnormal Pap smear and how it can be investigated with a colposcopy.
A Pap smear, also known as a cervical screening test, looks for abnormal cells in the cervix. An abnormal result indicates that there may be changes to the cells in the cervix that need to be further investigated. Some of the most common causes of an abnormal Pap smear are human papillomavirus (HPV), cervical cancer, and infection.
A colposcopy is a procedure used to investigate an abnormal Pap smear result. During this exam, your doctor will use a magnifying tool called a colposcope to closely inspect the area of your cervix where abnormal cells were detected. If any suspicious areas are found, biopsies may be taken. Biopsies can help diagnose or rule out cervical cancer and other conditions that cause an abnormal Pap smear result.
It is important to follow up with a colposcopy if you have had an abnormal Pap smear result, as early diagnosis and treatment are key to preventing progression of cervical cancer or other conditions.
Common Causes of Abnormal Pap Smears
- Human Papillomavirus (HPV)
- Cervical Cancer
- Infections, such as chlamydia or gonorrhea
- Abnormal growths in the cervix, such as polyps, fibroids, or cysts
- An abnormal immune system response
- Hormonal imbalances
- Changes in the cells of the cervix caused by other medical conditions, such as diabetes or autoimmune disorders
It is important to note that most abnormal Pap smears are not cancerous and can be managed with treatments such as antibiotics or hormones. However, it is still crucial to follow your doctor’s instructions for further testingand treatments to ensure that any underlying conditions are diagnosed and treated as soon as possible.
Abnormal Pap Smear Q & A
Should I be Concerned About an Abnormal Pap Smear?
Yes, it is important to be aware of an abnormal Pap smear result and take the necessary steps to ensure that any underlying condition is addressed. True Harmony provides comprehensive colposcopy services in Mesa, AZ that can help diagnose or rule out cervical cancer and other conditions that cause an abnormal Pap smear result.
Is an abnormal Pap smear always cancerous?
No, most abnormal Pap smears are not cancerous and can be managed with treatments such as antibiotics or hormones. However, it is still important to get further testing or treatment in order to ensure any underlying condition is addressed. Early detection and treatment are key in managing cervical cancer and other conditions that can cause an abnormal pap smear result.
What are abnormal Pap smear results?
A Pap smear screens for cervical cancer by gently scraping off cervical tissue and sending it to a lab for evaluation. When the lab technician identifies abnormal cells, they’re graded using the following criteria: (See Ref 2, paras 4-8)
- ASC-US (atypical squamous cells of undetermined significance): changes in cervical cells are found that are not significant enough to be dysplasia and usually resolves without treatment
- LSIL (low-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion) abnormal cervical cell changes considered precancerous, and follow-up testing is recommended
- HSIL (high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion): moderate to severe changes that may be precancerous and likely to develop into cancer or localized cancer
- AGC (atypical glandular cells): suggests precancerous changes in cells of the upper cervix or uterus
- Cancer: changes suggest cancerous cells that have spread