Abnormal Pap Smear

The pap test is a way to find abnormal cell changes on the cervix that might lead to cancer. It can take 5 - 7 years to develop invasive cancer of the cervix. By receiving routine pap smear testing, abnormalities can be found early, and treated before cancer develops.

The cervix is the narrow opening at the end of a woman's uterus (womb). It opens in to the vagina (birth canal). The cervix is covered by a thin layer of tissue like the skin inside your mouth. The skin cells grow all the time, moving from the bottom to the top before they are shed. Sometimes during that process, the cells can become abnormal. The Pap test, also known as cervical cytology screening, takes a small sample of cells from the cervix to screen for precancerous changes of the cervix.

The results of your test are placed in one of several groups:

Normal (negative): There are no signs of precancer or cancer.

Atypical squamous cells (ASC): Some abnormal cells are seen. These may be caused by an infection or irritation, or may be precancerous.

Squamous intraepithelial lesion (SIL): Some changes are seen that could be precancerous. These are further subdivided into
       - LSIL (low grade) early, mild changes seen in the cells or
       - HSIL (high grade) Moderate or severe changes seen in the cells.


Atypical glandular cells (AGUS): Further testing is needed due to an increased risk of precancer or cancer of the cervix, uterus or other female reproductive organs.


Cancer: Abnormal cells have spread deeper into the cervix or to other tissues.

If your pap smear is abnormal, further testing is required. Tests usually include a colposcopy and a biopsy.

Sometimes the cell changes will go away on their own and return to normal. In that case only repeat pap smear testing is required. However sometimes additional treatments such as cryotherapy, electrosurgical excision (LEEP), cone biopsy or laser treatment are required. Rarely hysterectomy is required.

If you are concerned about your test results, talk to your doctor.

Keep in mind that with routine exam, most problems are caught early and can be treated!