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Pap Smear
Alternate Names : Papanicolaou Test
 See all Pictures & Images
What do Abnormal Results Mean?
Abnormal values are based on the test results. The current system of reporting divides the results into three main areas: benign or noncancerous, precancerous or showing some abnormal cell changes, and malignant or possibly cancerous.
A report in the latter two categories will usually lead to a follow-up examination, including a repeat Pap smear and possibly other tests. If you have never had an abnormal Pap smear before, and the result indicates a mild abnormality, the Pap test is repeated in 6 months. If the test result suggests a severe abnormality or cancer, you should undergo immediate colposcopic evaluation with biopsies. If you have had an abnormal Pap test in the past, or have had treatment for a precancerous change, you should have an immediate colposcopy.
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• Definition
• Why is the Test Performed?
• How is the Test Performed?
• How to Prepare for the Test?
• How will the Test Feel?
• Normal Values
• What do Abnormal Results Mean?
• Special Considerations
• Risks
• Pictures & Images
Topics that might be of interest to you Diseases & Conditions
• Cervicitis
Tests & Exams
• Colposcopy - Directed Biopsy
Other Topics
• Cervix
• Vagina
Review Date : 1/18/2002
Reviewed By : Peter Chen, M.D., Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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