Do I Have Cervical Cancer?

Being tested positive for human papilloma virus (HPV) is not the same as being diagnosed with cervical cancer. Cervical cancer is diagnosed when cervical tissue is examined by a pathologist, only then is the diagnosis considered definitive, and appropriate treatment strategies are devised. The presence of HPV is an indicator that a woman is at risk for cervical intraepithelial neoplasia, which can profess to cancer.

Regular screening pap smears are recommended for women at risk for sexually transmitted diseases. A pap smear can identify changes going on within the cervix, and a health care provider will recommend a biopsy based on the findings. Potential precancerous changes merit more direct exploration. Pap smears sample only a small quantity of cells for cytologic review. A cone biopsy or loop electrical excision is used to remove a suspicious lesion for pathologic exam. These biopsy procedures are routine in the detection and investigation of potential cervical cancers.

Cervical intraepithileal neoplasia is graded according to the terms of its severity. CIN I is a sign that precancerous cells are developing. CIN II indicates that troublesome growth is further along. CIN III is the last stage before a fully developed cervical tumor appears. The presence of CIN III may require radical intervention based on the advice of a licensed physician. 

Cervical cancer should not be confused with uterine cancer. Many women suffer from endometroid tumors, many of which are benign. Having fibroid tumors is not a precursor for cervical cancer, their causes are different from those that cause squamous cell carcinoma of the cervix.

Women who are sexually active, or who are concerned about possibly contracting HPV, are advised to receive a vaccine to prevent infection. Preventing HPV infection has been shown to reduce the chances of contracting cervical cancer. Safe practices should always be used during sexual intercourse, including the use of condoms.

Treatment for cervical cancer tend to rely on surgical removal of the affected area. Left undetected, cancerous cells can spread throughout the female reproductive tract, requiring more extensive surgery. A radical vaginal trachelectomy is the removal of the entire cervix through the vagina. If a tumor has metastasized into related, surrounding organs, a radical hysterectomy may be required, with or without an accompanying salpingo-oopherectomy to remove the fallopian tubes and ovaries. Prevention is the primary line of defense to avoid therapeutic surgeries to remove gynecologic tumors and affected organs.

A pap smear is a minimally invasive technique by which a representative sample of cervical cells are removed and then examined under a microscope. A LEEP or LOOP biopsy, or a cone biopsy remove a more extensive tissue sample either through the use of electrocautery or with a scalpel. Slight vaginal bleeding may accompany a biopsy procedure, but complications are minimal. This is a common procedure performed every day, and it has provided great relief for patients no matter the findings. Positive results of tumor initiate a new plan of care, while negative findings bring peace of mind.