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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. Atypical Squamous Cells of Undetermined Significance (ASCUS)(Content revised 11/2011) When the cervical screening test shows the presence of ASCUS, it means that the cells are somewhat different from normal cells under microscope but their degree of deterioration is not severe enough for them to be called pre-cancerous cells. Out of every 100 women taking the screening test, about 3 to 5 will have the above manifestation and 50% of whom will have their cells
regressed to normal after 4 to 6 months. The screening test cannot fully reflect the degree of deterioration of the cervical tissues. In fact, among 100 women with abnormal cervical cells, about 5 have severely deteriorated cervical tissue. Therefore, women should have repeat tests every 6 months until two consecutive normal results are achieved. If abnormal cells persist or the condition worsens, referral to specialist clinic for colposcopy will be required. Since the progression from severe deterioration of cervical cells to cancer generally takes about 5 to 10 years, the condition does not pose any immediate threat, please do not worry excessively. The development of cervical cancer is a long process. The cells of the cervix gradually undergo a series of changes from normal cells to abnormal cells, to mild, moderate, then severe deterioration, and finally to cervical cancer. Apart from continual worsening of cell changes, at any time, the cell changes can also spontaneously regress to normal. However. Even if the cell changes already show severe deterioration, it can still take up to 5 to 10 years before cancer finally appears. We understand that woman may wish to have a repeat test as soon as possible. As the external layer of cervical cells has been scraped off during the previous smear and the cells take time to grow again (at least 4 to 6 weeks), early re-examination cannot reflect the condition of the cervical cells accurately. Please attend for a repeat test at the scheduled time. What is colposcopy?Colposcopy refers to the examination of the vagina using a magnifying glass. The examination procedures can be performed at clinics without anaesthesia and will take about 10 minutes. ProceduresThe doctor will insert the colposcope, stain the vagina and cervix with special medicinal solution and then use the magnifying glass to identify any abnormal lesion. If abnormal lesion is found, the doctor will use an equipment to extract a small piece of the tissue and send it to the laboratory for further analysis. The whole process is painless and therefore there is no need to worry about the procedure. 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].
How long does it take for ASCUS to turn into cancer?Apart from continual worsening of cell changes, at any time, the cell changes can also spontaneously regress to normal. However. Even if the cell changes already show severe deterioration, it can still take up to 5 to 10 years before cancer finally appears.
Can atypical squamous cells go away?They usually go away on their own and do not require treatment. CIN 2 changes are moderate and are typically treated by removing the abnormal cells. However, CIN 2 can sometimes go away on its own. Some people, after consulting with their health care provider, may decide to have a colposcopy with biopsy every 6 months.
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Atypical squamous cells of undetermined significance meaning
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