Pap smear

The Pap smear is a screening test to pick up premalignant changes in cells of the cervix so that treatment of those changes will prevent a future invasive cervical cancer. Doctors do not always recommend biopsies for abnormal Pap smears because many of the abnormal Pap smears will regress to normal on their own.

Unsatisfactory

Pap smear to be repeated whenever possible.

Absent Endocervical Component

Insufficient cells were obtained for the purpose of the test. This is more common in some groups e.g. Chinese women. This does not mean the test is abnormal but it gives a lower level of confidence in the test and means the test should be repeated after approximately 3 months.

WNL (within normal limits)

Pap smear to be repeated at normal screening intervals.

BCC (Benign Cellular Changes)

These include those due to infection, atrophy, radiation or repair; Pap smear to be repeated in 6 months, following treatment.

ASCUS (Atypical Glandular Cells of Undetermined Significance)

Abnormal cells were found in the cells of the inner cervix. AGUS can occur with infections or with a change in the cells on the surface of your cervix. You may require repeated Pap smear every 3 months or you may require colposcopy.

LGSIL (Low Grade Squamous Intraepithelial Lesion)

This is a common condition of the cells of the cervix and often occurs when the HPV wart virus is present. These changes in the cervix can be present even if you and your sex partner are monogamous and have never had visible warts. Changes with LSIL often get better in time. Colposcopy and cervical biopsy are recommended.

HGSIL (High Grade Squamous Intraepithelial Lesion)

There is a high risk of developing malignancy if left untreated. Colposcopy and treatment from an O&G specialist is recommended.

Inflammation

Inflammation of the cervix is very common and usually does not mean that there is a problem although it may result in mildly abnormal Pap smears. When the inflammation is treated, repair of the tissues will usually follow and a repeat Pap smear in several months will often then be normal.

Hyperkeratosis

This is a finding of dried skin on the Pap smear. This change in the cells of the cervix often occurs from using a cervical cap or diaphragm or from a cervical infection. You will require a repeat Pap smear in 6 months.

Colposcopy

A colposcope is a lighted microscope that is used to magnify the tissues of the cervix during a pelvic examination. It takes 5-10 minutes to perform. During the examination, the doctor may take small samples of cervical tissue (biopsies) for further examination.