The pap test is a simple test that detects changes in the cervix (the opening of a woman's uterus.) The cervix
is covered with a thin layer of tissue and the cells that make up this tissue grown all the time. During a pap test
the physician takes a small spatula and brush and removes cells from the cervix to be examined by a pathologist. If
the pathologist deterines there are any abnormalities the physician is notified and the patient must return for further follow
up. The pap test can identify abnormal cells that could eventually lead to cancer if left untreated. That is why
it is so important for women to have yearly pap tests. Even if a woman has had a hysterectomy she still needs to have
regular pap tests because the vaginal cuff remains.
Some women have a higher risk for developing cervical abnormalities. Your risk may be higher if you:
- Have multiple sexual partners
- Have history of STD's
- Smoke cigarettes
PAP TEST RESULT
- Normal: only normal cells were identified on the pap test
- Atypical squamous cells of undetermined significance (ASCUS): mildly abnormal changes were identified.
- Squamous intraepithelial lesion (SIL): cells that were tested show certain abnormalities. Low grade includes mild
changes and changes linked to HPV (human papilloma virus). High grade includes moderate and severe changes and are referred
to as "precancerous"
- Cerival intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN): Changes on the cells of the surface of the cervix. Normal cells are replaced
by a layer of abnormal cells. This is called dysplasia.
CIN can be one of three grades:
- CIN 1 - Mild Dysplasia
- CIN 2 - Moderate Dysplasia
- CIN 3 - Severe Dysplasia
The following link can provide you with further information regarding abnormal Pap tests.
