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Pap smear
Alternate Names : Papanicolaou test
Normal Values
A normal value is negative, meaning there are no abnormal cells present. Note: Normal value ranges may vary slightly among different laboratories. Talk to your doctor about the meaning of your specific test results.
What do Abnormal Results Mean?
The Pap smear is a screening test. Abnormal values are based on the test results. The current system divides the results into three main areas:
- ASCUS or AGUS (atypical cells of uncertain significance)
- LSIL (low-grade dysplasia) or HSIL (high-grade dysplasia)
- Possibly cancerous (malignant)
When a Pap smear shows abnormalities, further testing or follow-up is needed. The next step depends on the results of the Pap smear, your previous history of Pap smears, and risk factors you may have for cervical cancer. - If the Pap smear shows minor cell changes or abnormalities, a colposcopy-directed biopsy probably will NOT be done right away unless there is a reason to believe you may be in a high-risk category.
- With an ASCUS result, an HPV test is done to check for the presence of the HPV virus types most likely to cause cancer. If the HPV test is negative, then colposcopy will not be needed.
- For minor cell changes, doctors usually recommend having a repeat Pap smear in 6 months. With a negative HPV test result, it's acceptable to have the repeat Pap done in 1 year.
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Review Date : 4/17/2009
Reviewed By : Linda Vorvick, MD, Family Physician, Seattle Site Coordinator, Lecturer, Pathophysiology, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant Studies, University of Washington School of Medicine; Susan Storck, MD, FACOG, Chief, Eastside Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Group Health Cooperative of Puget Sound, Redmond, WA; Clinical Teaching Faculty, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
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