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When a Pap smear detects atypical squamous cells, follow-up testing is required to determine the underlying cause. In most cases, the presence of abnormal squamous cells does not indicate the presence of cervical cancer. However, abnormal Pap results should always be discussed with a medical professional so that an individualized action plan can be created. Atypical squamous cells can be a sign of:
Usually, when atypical squamous cells are found, the cell sample is re-analyzed to check for the presence of certain viruses, such as HPV. While having HPV does not necessarily mean that a woman will develop cervical cancer, it does increase her risk of developing the condition, which means that more frequent Pap smears may be necessary to detect abnormal changes should they occur. Additional tests, such as cervical biospies, endocervical sampling exams and colposcopies may also be recommended after an atypical Pap result. If cancerous squamous cells are detected during a Pap smear, prompt treatment is advised. The earlier that cancer is detected, the more treatment options a patient typically has. At Moffitt Cancer Center, we offer a comprehensive range of diagnostic tests and treatments that are backed by the latest advances in cervical cancer research. As a National Cancer Institute-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center, we are continually investigating the newest options for preventing, detecting and treating cancer, and our patients directly benefit from our acclaimed clinical trials. Medically reviewed by Jing-Yi Chern, MD, gynecologic oncologist If you’ve recently received abnormal Pap smear results involving the presence of atypical squamous cells, call 1-888-663-3488 or submit a new patient registration form online to request an appointment with one of Moffitt’s gynecologic oncologists. We welcome patients with and without physician referrals. Virtual visits appointments are available, however, in most cases, a complete exam and evaluation in person will be needed to decide the best treatment. You go for your normally scheduled pap test, but this time things are different. You get your test results, and you see ABNORMAL. You, along with 8% of Canada’s female population, are wondering the same thing. What does this mean? In this blog post, we break down what you need to know about the Pap smear, the possible results, and what it means to have epithelial cell abnormality. First, let’s break down what an epithelial cell is. What is an Epithelial Cell?Epithelial cells are found on the surface layers of the body such as the skin, respiratory tract, urinary tract, and organs. The cells create a barrier between the inside and outside of the body, protecting it from invaders like viruses, bacteria, and other pathogens. Epithelial tissue is one of the four major tissue groups and can be found lining many parts of the digestive system, the epidermis, the oral cavity, many of the body’s glands, and the cervix. There are three types of epithelial cells: squamous, cuboidal, and columnar. Squamous cells are what we commonly examine when it comes to Pap testing and cell abnormality. Squamous cells are found in the esophagus, mouth, and vagina, protecting the body against wear and abrasion.
What Is An Epithelial Cell Abnormality?An Epithelial Cell Abnormality is when an epithelial cell has undergone abnormal cellular changes, which could indicate cancerous or pre-cancerous cells.When abnormal cells are found on the cervix, this is also known as cervical dysplasia. Epithelial cell abnormality and cervical dysplasia are detected through a Pap test.
What is the Pap Test?The Pap test or Pap smear was invented in the 1920s by a gynecologist named George Papanicolaou. While researching, Papanicolaou discovered certain cellular smears taken from the vagina and cervix and viewed under the microscope differed in epithelial cellular normality. His discovery revealed early detection of cancerous cells in women presenting without any current symptoms. The Pap test has now become part of routine physical examination for individuals with female reproductive parts to detect and monitor the presence of precancerous or cancerous cells on the cervix that may progress into cervical cancer. The test results from a Pap smear can go one of three ways: NORMAL, UNCLEAR, ABNORMAL.
Breaking down the Abnormal Pap Test ResultsThe Pap test is a screening test that reports different grades of abnormality. The following table displays the severity of these results from lowest to highest:
Abnormal Result BreakdownHere is a breakdown of abnormal Pap test results:
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What does Cervical Intraepithelial Lesion (CIN) mean?The Pap test cannot tell the exact severity of cervical cellular changes. A cervical biopsy taken through colposcopy is needed to find out whether precancer or cancer is actually present. Cervical biopsy results are reported as Cervical Intraepithelial Lesion (CIN) on a grade of 1, 2, or 3.
Frequently Asked Questions:What is an HPV test? How often do I need to get a Pap test? What should I do following an abnormal Pap? How are abnormal cervical cells treated? How can I naturally support my body to clear HPV? We developed the Papillex supplement for this very reason, to boost your immune system and best prepare your body to regress those abnormal cells back to normal cervical cells. Papillex contains high-quality, fine-tuned ingredients hand-picked specifically to fight HPV infections. Are you ready to respond to HPV?What should you do if atypical squamous cells of undetermined significance?ASCUS ~ Atypical squamous cells of undetermined significance
This diagnosis means that some of the cells on your Pap smear did not look entirely normal but did not meet diagnostic criteria for a lesion. Your doctor may either repeat your Pap smear, or perform a colposcopy.
Should I worry about atypical squamous cells of undetermined significance?Atypical squamous cells of undetermined significance (ASC-US) — With ASC-US, the risk of a high-grade precancerous lesion (cells with a moderate to high risk of developing into cervical cancer) is as high as 7 percent, and the risk of cervical cancer is less than 1 percent [1,2].
What does it mean to have epithelial cell abnormality on Pap smear?Epithelial cell abnormalities
This means that the cells lining the cervix or vagina show changes that might be cancer or a pre-cancer. This category is divided into several groups for squamous cells and glandular cells.
Is epithelial cell abnormality serious?These cell changes are usually more serious than ASC (atypical squamous cells). This means there is a greater risk that precancer or cancer is present. This result is sometimes called mild dysplasia. It indicates low-grade changes that are usually caused by an HPV infection.
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