Cervical Dysplasia
Alternate Names : Cervical Intraepithelial Neoplasia (CIN), Precancerous Changes of the Cervix
How is the condition diagnosed?
Diagnosis of cervical dysplasia is done with a pelvic examination that includes a Pap smear. During a pelvic exam, the cervix,
vagina, and vulva are checked for signs of changes. To do a Pap smear, a
provider uses a small spatula and a brush to gently scrape cells from the
cervix. These cells are sent to a lab for testing.
If abnormalities are found, the Pap smear may be
repeated in 3 months. Alternately, the healthcare provider may do additional
tests, including:
colposcopy, a procedure in which a special microscope allows the
provider to closely examine the cervix, vagina, and vulva
cervical biopsy, a procedure in which small tissue samples are
taken from the cervix. This procedure is generally done in a healthcare
provider's office.
cold cone biopsy, a
procedure in which a large tissue sample is taken from the cervix. This
procedure is normally done in an
operating room under
general anesthesia. The cone biopsy often removes all of the
abnormal tissue.
|
Previous section
