A pap smear is a test to detect changes in the cells of your cervix. The National Cancer Institute estimates that about 55 million pap smears are done annually in the United States. Of those, about 3.5 million or 6 percent, are abnormal and require follow-up. Without follow-up, the abnormal changes could become cervical cancer. If you have an abnormal pap result, it does not necessarily mean you have cancer. It does mean that some treatment is required to prevent the development of cancer.
Atypical Squamous Cells
Squamous cells are the layer of cells just under the surface of the skin of the cervix. Atypical squamous cells (ASC) results are divided into two categories: atypical squamous cells of undetermined significance (ASCUS) or atypical squamous cells that cannot exclude a high grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (ASC-H). ASCUS simply means that there are some changes to the cells, but the cause is uncertain. ASCUS are considered minor changes. ASC-H results mean that there is a higher chance of the of the cells being precancerous. With either of these results, a test will be done with your cell sample to determine if your cervix has been infected with the human papilloma virus (HPV). Depending on your results, you may be advised to have a colposcopy (a visual exam of your cervix through a special type of microscope) or a repeat pap in one year. According to the National Cancer Institute, only a small percentage of women with untreated HPV infections develop cervical cancer, even though HPV infections are very common.
Atypical Glandular Cells
Glandular cells are mucous-producing cells found in the opening of the cervix and in the lining of the uterus. Atypical glandular cells (AGC) means that there are changes in the glandular cells, but the cause is uncertain. If your pap smear comes back with an AGC result, you will be advised to have a colposcopy and possibly a biopsy of the lining of your uterus.
Endocervical Adenocarcinoma In Situ
Endocervial adenocarcinoma in situ (AIS) means that precancerous cells are found in the glandular cells.
Low-Grade Squamous Intraepithelial Lesion
Low-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (LSIL) means that there are changes in the size and shape of the cells of your cervix. This is considered a minor abnormality and is usually caused by an HPV infection. Teens are advised to have a repeat pap smear test done in six to 12 months. Adults are advised to have an HPV test done, along with a colposcopy.
High-Grade Squamous Intraepithelial Lesion
High-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (HSIL) means that there are more changes to your cervical cells. These changes are considered very abnormal and the cells are referred to as precancerous. There is a higher chance of developing cervical cancer with a pap result of HSIL. A colposcopy will be done within three months. Depending on what your health care provider sees during the colposcopy, further treatment may be necessary.
About this Author
Based in Seattle, Kristina Chamberlain is a freelance health writer. She writes educational material on childbirth and breastfeeding and is currently working on her first book. She holds a master’s degree in midwifery from the University of Washington. Her website maintains a blog about birth, breastfeeding and parenting.
