Pap smear

Injury Disease Nutrition Poison Symptoms Surgery Test Special Topic

1 2 5 A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X

Female reproductive anatomy The Pap smear Uterus Pap smear

Overview Risks Results

Pap smear

A normal value is negative, meaning there are no abnormal cells present.

Abnormal values are based on the test results. The current system of reporting divides the results into three main areas: benign (noncancerous), precancerous (showing some abnormal cell changes), and malignant (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 may need an 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 may need an immediate colposcopy.

The Pap smear is a screening test. Any abnormal results should be discussed with your health care professional, who will help determine if a colposcopy is necessary.

Email this page  Printer friendly  Bookmark this page