Cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN); Precancerous changes of the cervix

It can take 10 years or longer for cervical dysplasia to develop into cancer.

Treatment depends on the degree of dysplasia.

• Mild dysplasia (LSIL or CIN I) may go away on its own. You may only need careful observation by your doctor with repeat Pap smears every 3 - 6 months. If it lasts for 2 years, treatment is usually recommended.

Treatment for moderate to severe dysplasia or mild dysplasia that does not go away may include:

• Cryosurgery
• Electrocauterization
• Laser vaporization to destroy the abnormal tissue
• LEEP procedure using electrocautery to remove abnormal areas
• Surgery to remove the abnormal tissue (cone biopsy)

Rarely, a hysterectomy may be recommended. Women with dysplasia need consistent follow-up, usually every 3 to 6 months or as recommended by their provider.

Early diagnosis and prompt treatment cure nearly all cases of cervical dysplasia.

Without treatment, 30 - 50% of cases of severe cervical dysplasia may lead to invasive cancer. The risk of cancer is lower for mild dysplasia.

The condition may return.

Call for an appointment with your health care provider if you are age 21 or older and have never had a pelvic examination and Pap smear.

See: Physical exam frequency

Images

Uterus

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Cervical dysplasia Symptoms

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Cervical dysplasia Prevention

Review Date: 02/21/2010
Reviewed By: 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.

A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org)