What do Pap smear abnormal cells convey? What are the causes of Pap smear abnormalities? If these are the questions lingering in your mind, then read the following article which provides information on Pap smear tests and their results. The Pap smear guidelines given below, will clear all your doubts…
During Pap smear tests or Pap tests, cells collected from the cervix (lower narrow end of the uterus) are thoroughly examined. This test can be called a lifesaver, as it helps detect cervical cancer at an early stage when it is possible to treat the cancer and recover from the cancer. Thanks to researchers and modern technology, 90% women diagnosed with early stage cervical cancer get cured completely. Every woman should undergo a Pap smear test, the most reliable screening method to detect and cure early stage cervical cancer that would go undetected otherwise. Pap smear abnormal cells do not necessarily mean that you have or you will get cancer. Non cancerous conditions such as infection and inflammation can also lead to abnormal cells. Along with Pap smear, a pelvic exam is a must. It helps find out abnormalities in the uterus, ovaries, fallopian tubes, vagina, bladder and rectum.
Causes of Pap Smear Abnormalities
- Excessive smoking or consumption of tobacco
- Sexually transmitted diseases like herpes or gonorrhea
- Genetic factors or family history of cervical cancer
- Multiple sex partners
- Sex without using any protection
- Human Papillomavirus infection
Pap Smear Abnormalities: Results
Usually, in the United States, the terms from the Bethesda System are used to report Pap test results. ‘Negative for intraepithelial lesion or malignancy’ means that no cell abnormalities were found during Pap smear testing. The thin flat squamous cells which form the surface of the cervix are examined during the test. Pap smear abnormal cells are reported in various ways:
| Test Result | Meaning | Description | Comment | Tests and Treatment May Include |
| ASC-US | Atypical squamous cells of undetermined significance | Squamous cells not completely normal, but doctors uncertain about what the cell changes mean. The changes may be related to human papillomavirus (HPV) infection | Mild abnormalities | HPV testing, need to repeat Pap test, colposcopy and biopsy, estrogen cream |
| ASC-H | Atypical squamous cells, cannot exclude a high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion | Squamous cells not completely normal, but doctors uncertain about what the cell changes mean | At higher risk of being precancerous | Colposcopy and biopsy |
| AGC | Atypical glandular cells | Glandular cells not completely normal, but doctors uncertain about what the cell changes mean. | Mucus producing glandular cells are present in the endo-cervical canal (opening in the center of the cervix) or in the lining of the uterus. | Colposcopy and biopsy and/or endocervical curettage |
| AIS | Endo-cervical adenocarcinoma in situ | Precancerous cells found in glandular tissue | At higher risk of having cervical cancer | Colposcopy and biopsy and/or endocervical curettage |
| LSIL | Low-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion | Early changes in the size and shape of cells. Lesion describes an area of abnormal tissue. Intraepithelial means the layer of cells that forms the surface of the cervix. | Mild abnormalities caused by HPV infection. It is also recognized as Mild dysplasia or Cervical intraepithelial neoplasia -1 (CIN – 1) | Colposcopy and biopsy |
| HSIL | High-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion | More marked changes in the size and shape of the abnormal (precancerous) cells, abnormal cells look very different from normal cells | More severe abnormalities and a higher likelihood of progressing to invasive cancer. It is also described as Moderate dysplasia or Severe dysplasia or CIN – 2 or CIN – 3 or Carcinoma in situ (CIS) | Colposcopy and biopsy and/or endocervical curettage. Further treatment with LEEP, cryotherapy, laser therapy, conization, or hysterectomy |
You should not feel afraid of Pap smear procedure. It is a very simple procedure. And there is no need to panic if you see abnormal test results. Detection of cancer in an early stage helps save the life. More awareness is needed in undeveloped countries where there are more chances of getting abnormal Pap smears. You may consult your physician about when and how often you should have a Pap test.
