Cervical dysplasia is a term used to describe the appearance of abnormal cells on the lining or surface of the cervix, the lowest part of the uterus. It is a pre-cancerous condition but not cancer itself. Cervical dysplasia has been linked to HPV or human papillomavirus, but there are also other factors that are important in its development. Usually, there are no symptoms of cervical dysplasia, so it is important to have regular screening done.
Cervical Dysplasia linked to HPV
Dysplasia of the cervix has been linked to HPV or human papillomavirus, and infection of the cervix. A group of HPVs have been found to infect the lining of the cells of the genital and reproductive tract in women. HPV is actually very common as over 75% of sexually active women are thought to acquire it at some point in their lives.
There are additional factors that may make women more prone to developing cervical dysplasia. They include:
- infection with herpes virus
- use of drugs that suppress the immune system
- smoking
- immune-suppressing medical conditions
- family history of dysplasia
Symptoms and Screening for HPV
Typically, there are no signs or symptoms associated with cervical dysplasia. Most cases will resolve on their own, but some will persist.
Regular screening for cervical dysplasia is most important for diagnosis and treatment. Currently, Pap smears are used to discover the presence of abnormal cells on the surface of the cervix. If results are abnormal or unclear, further diagnostic tests are used:
- colposcopy: Using a colposcope or a microscope similar to tiny binoculars, the doctor examines the vaginal walls and cervix through the vaginal opening.
- biopsy: A tissue sample or samples are taken to be further examines under a microscope and they may be done during a colposcopy if suspicious areas seen during the procedure.
- HPV testing: done to detect whether a “high risk” HPV infection is present
Cervical Dysplasia Biopsy Results
Once a biopsy is done and the cervical tissue sample is examined for abnormal cells, the results can vary:
- LSIL or CIN Grade 1 – low-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions, Cervical Intraepithelial Neoplasia (or cervical dysplasia); this is a very mild to mild dysplasia with approximately one third of the cells being pre-cancerous.
- HSIL or CIN Grade 2– high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions; this is a moderate dysplasia with about two thirds of the cells being pre-cancerous.
- HSIL or CIN Grade 3 – a severe dysplasia with almost all of the cells being precancerous
Importance of Cervical Dysplasia Screening
Cervical dysplasia can develop into cervical cancer if left untreated. While a diagnosis can range from completely normal to severe dysplasia or cancer, there are unfortunately no usual signs or symptoms. It is, therefore, extremely important for women to have regular screening for cervical dysplasia.
Sources:
womenshealthmatters.ca, " Cervical Dysplasia " (accessed April 29, 2010)
medicinenet.com, "Cervical Dysplasia" (accessed April 30, 2010)
Mary Margaret Peralta - Mary Margaret is a mom to three children, with a passion for reading, writing and cooking.
Join the Conversation