Koilocytosis is a cellular change in the cervix that can be caused by HPV and may indicate a risk of malignancy. Further testing and regular screenings are recommended to identify any potential cancerous changes. A colposcopy can be used to take a biopsy sample for laboratory testing. Patients with abnormal smear results should not panic and should seek further testing.
Koilocytosis is a form of cellular change that can be seen in the epithelial cells lining the cervix with some types of medical conditions. While not malignant in itself, it can be a warning sign of malignancy or another medical problem. If a smear test reveals koilocytosis on laboratory examination, further follow-up testing may be recommended to learn more about the source of the change, and the patient may be advised to obtain rigorous screenings in the future in order to identify any malignant changes already possible. Patients with a history of abnormal smears who are changing physicians should ensure their history is noted.
In koilocytosis, the cell nuclei become enlarged, growing two to three times larger than they should. The nuclei can also be very dark and stain easily, a trait known as hyperchromasia. Furthermore, the outlines of the nuclei appear to be surrounded by halos or rings. Perinuclear halos, as they are known, are a hallmark of koilocytosis. These cellular changes are visible upon staining and magnification in a laboratory setting.
The most common reason this change occurs is human papilloma virus (HPV) infection. HPV can cause cellular changes in infected women, including changes that develop into malignant tumors. Koilocytosis is also present in cancerous and precancerous cells. Because it can be associated with cancer, when koilocytosis is identified, additional medical screening is needed to learn more about why the cells are changing.
A procedure known as a colposcopy can be used to take a larger biopsy sample while examining the area in question under very clear, bright lighting. This procedure offers healthcare professionals the opportunity to identify cellular changes and take samples from specific areas for follow-up. The biopsy sample will be tested in a laboratory for any abnormalities and a report will be generated with further information for the doctor.
Some patients may have HPV for life and have no further medical problems, even if abnormal cells develop. Other patients may develop cervical cancer. Regular screening allows a doctor to identify signs of malignancies as early as possible so that appropriate treatments and interventions can be provided. Patients who have an abnormal smear result should not panic. There are many factors that can cause abnormal results and the usual recommended response is more tests to confirm there are abnormalities and to learn more about the cellular changes that are occurring.
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