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Alternative Names Return to top
Cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN); Precancerous changes of the cervixDefinition Return to top
Cervical dysplasia is the abnormal growth of cells on the surface of the cervix. Although this is not cancer, this is considered a precancerous condition.
Cervical dysplasia is grouped into three categories:
Causes Return to top
Most cases of cervical dysplasia occur in women aged 25 to 35.
The cause is unknown. However, the following may increase your risk:
Symptoms Return to top
There are usually no symptoms.
Exams and Tests Return to top
A pelvic examination is usually normal.
A Pap smear shows abnormal cells. A colposcopy-directed biopsy is done to confirm the condition and determine its severity.
Other tests may be done to find out if the abnormal cells have spread outside the cervix:
Treatment Return to top
Treatment depends on the degree of dysplasia. Mild dysplasia may go away on its own . You may only need careful observation by your doctor with repeat Pap smears every 3 to 6 months.
Treatment for moderate to severe dysplasia or dysplasia that does not go away may include:
Women with dysplasia need consistent follow-up, usually every 3 to 6 months or as recommended by their provider.
Outlook (Prognosis) Return to top
Early diagnosis and prompt treatment cures 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.
Possible Complications Return to top
The condition may return.
When to Contact a Medical Professional Return to top
Call for an appointment with your health care provider if you are a woman who is sexually active or aged 20 or older and you have never had a pelvic examination and Pap smear.
Prevention Return to top
To reduce the chance of developing cervical dysplasia:
References Return to top
Noller KL. Intraepithelial Neoplasia of the Lower Genital Tract (Cervix, Vulva) : Etiology, Screening, Diagnostic Techniques, Management. In: Katz VL, Lentz GM, Lobo RA, Gershenson DM. Comprehensive Gynecology. 5th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Mosby Elsevier; 2007: chap. 28.
Wright TC Jr, Cox JT, Massad LS, Twiggs LB, Wilkinson EJ; ASCCP-Sponsored Consensus Conference. 2001 Consensus Guidelines for the management of women with cervical cytological abnormalities. JAMA. 2002 Apr 24;287(16):2120-9. Review.
Hoffman MS, Martino MA. 2001 consensus guidelines for the management of women with cervical intraepithelial neoplasia. Am J Obstet Gynecol. 2004 Sep;191(3):1049
Update Date: 5/26/2008 Updated by: Susan Storck, MD, FACOG, Clinical Teaching Faculty, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Washington School of Medicine; Chief, Eastside Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Group Health Cooperative of Puget Sound, Redmond, Washington. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
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Page last updated: 25 September 2008 |