If you get routine Pap smears, you’re already practicing preventative measures against cancer. Additionally, abnormal results do not necessarily indicate cancer is present; it may indicate a change in normal cells, which warrants a closer look. There are also many other factors that can cause a Pap smear to return with abnormal results. Most of the time, abnormal results simply require a second Pap smear to be taken and in many cases, normal results are received.
Pap smears have a standardized classification system which is broken down into typically five categories or stages.
Class 1
Pap smears with Class 1 results indicate that the samples of cervical cells taken were normal and continued, routine testing is recommended every six to twelve months.
Class 2
A Class 2 Pap smear means that atypical cells were present. This can be due to an infection or inflammation and may present no symptoms. Additional causes for atypical results are sexual activity within 48 hours prior to testing, menstruation, and the recent use of tampons. Class 2 results usually warrant repeat testing.
Class 3
Class 3 Pap smear results indicate that abnormal cells are present and could be precancerous. Class 3 Pap smear results are also referred to as dysplasia cells or precancerous cells. This does not mean that cancer is present; it means that the abnormal cells could develop into cancerous cells if additional testing and treatment is not performed. Some doctors may choose to perform a colposcopy which is a slightly more invasive form of Pap smear where tissue is obtained for the purpose of biopsy. A biopsy can determine why the cells are abnormal, as well as what method of treatment should be performed. After a biopsy and recommended treatment, if any, retesting is common every three to six months to monitor new cell growth and once normal results are obtained a patient may return to routine testing every six to twelve months.
Class 4
A Class 4 Pap smear indicates cells with high-grade dysplasia and the presence of cancerous cells. A biopsy procedure will be performed to determine what type of cells are present, whether the cancerous cells are invasive, and what type of treatment is recommended. Once a biopsy has been completed and treatment performed, retesting is often recommended every three to six months.
Class 5
Pap smear results with a Class 5 category most often indicate that cancerous cells are present. A biopsy is performed to determine the type of cancer cells, how invasive, the severity, and what method of treatment is necessary. Retesting is common at frequent intervals following a biopsy.
You can see by the various stages of Pap smear classifications, the importance of routine testing. A routine Pap smear can identify, treat, and eliminate abnormal cells that could otherwise develop into cancer. The simple practice of obtaining routine Pap smears helps women live longer, keeps women healthier and saves lives.
