Reasons for a Repeat Pap Smear
Most adult women visit their doctor once a year for an exam called a Pap smear. This is a test that checks for various abnormalities that can signify certain diseases such as cancer. When your Pap smear reveals changes in cells, your doctor is alerted that there may be a problem. There are many reasons why these changes, or abnormal cells, can occur, prompting a repeat Pap smear.
Atypical Squamous Cells
Atypical squamous cells (ASC) can be found on the surface of the cervix and may not be serious. They can indicate infection or human papillomavirus. A repeat Pap smear will allow the doctor to determine if these abnormal cells are in fact due to infection or if they are precancerous cells.
Atypical Glandular Cells
These cells produce mucus and are more serious. These cells leave women at higher risk for cervical cancer. More tests in addition to a repeat Pap smear may be in order.
Low-Grade Squamous Intraepithelial Lesions
Low-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions usually mean the presence of HPV or genital warts. A repeat Pap smear may confirm this, as it is possible to be infected without the presence of warts. High-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions are usually precancerous and will be treated more aggressively if the repeat Pap smear returns the same results.
Squamous Cancer Cells
These cells will appear on the first Pap smear as extremely abnormal cells. The appearance of these cells indicates that the chances are great that you have cancer cells in one of the female reproductive organs such as the vagina, cervix or uterus. This is one of the times when your doctor will call you in for an immediate repeat Pap smear. He may want to schedule additional testing and possibly go over treatment options.
Inflammation and Hyperkeratosis
When a Pap smear returns cells that are inflamed or shows dried skin cells on your cervix, a doctor may want to repeat the test to ensure that the cells are from infection. Many doctors feel that this is not necessary as this situation may be treated immediately.
Time Frame
A repeat Pap smear may be requested by your physician immediately, or he may want to wait a few months to see if the less severe changes clear up on their own. In cases of non-cancerous cells, a woman may have to have repeat Pap smears done every six months until she has two consecutive normal results.
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