Cervical screening methods vary based on age, risk factors, and medical history. The Pap smear detects abnormal cells that may lead to cancer, while HPV screening identifies strains of the virus. Pelvic exams, LEEP, and cervical biopsies are also screening methods for cervical cancer. Early detection is key to successful treatment.
The recommended time between cervical screenings and the screening method varies among patients and depends on age, risk factors, and prior medical history. An important cervical screening method is the Papanicolao test. Also known as a Pap smear or Pap smear, it examines cells that have been collected from the cervix, the area similar to the neck of the uterus. The cells are then placed on a glass slide and stored before being sent to a laboratory for evaluation.
A Pap smear typically detects abnormal cells that can be a precursor to cancer. Pap smears can detect a condition called cervical dysplasia, which is a precancerous cell abnormality. A Pap smear can also detect cellular changes in the cervix before they become malignant.
Human papilloma virus (HPV) screening is a valuable component in cervical cancer screening. HPV is a strain of genital warts that can be a predisposing factor in the development of cervical cancer. The HPV screening test can identify different strains of the virus. HPV screening can be done in women after a Pap smear detects abnormal cervical changes. If the HPV test shows high-risk strains of HPV, further cervical screening tests may be recommended.
Pelvic exams can be a useful cervical screening test because during the exam, the reproductive organs, including the vagina, uterus, fallopian tubes, and ovaries, can be palpated for enlargement or irregularity. The bladder and rectum are usually palpated and also evaluated for abnormalities. Cervical cancer can be treated successfully if caught early. Both the Pap test and the pelvic exam can usually be done in the doctor’s office with minimal discomfort.
A loop electrosurgical excision procedure (LEEP) is a cervical screening procedure and treatment. LEEP uses a loop of wire connected to an electrosurgical generator; the electric current acts like a knife, cutting away the abnormal cervical tissue. This causes the abnormal dysplastic cells to heat up and burst. It also excises and collects cervical tissue which can be sent to the pathology laboratory for further cellular evaluation. There may be discomfort after the procedure which can be eased with over-the-counter pain relievers.
Cervical biopsies are a cervical screening procedure that removes a tissue sample from the cervix. The tissue sample is usually examined to determine if cancerous cells are present. A cervical biopsy may be done if a Pap smear shows abnormal cell changes. Different cervical biopsy methods can remove different amounts of cervical tissue. A cone biopsy removes a cone-shaped wedge of cervical tissue, and an endocervical biopsy removes cervical tissue by scraping it off with an instrument.
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