ASCUS (Atypical Squamous Cells of Undetermined Significance) is a common diagnosis for women who have had a Pap test. This diagnosis means that the cells taken from the cervix during the test appear abnormal and may be a sign of a pre-cancerous condition. While ASCUS can be concerning, it is not always a cause for alarm. In some cases, it can disappear and not require any further testing or treatment.
What is ASCUS?
ASCUS stands for Atypical Squamous Cells of Undetermined Significance. It is a diagnosis that is made when the cells taken from the cervix during a Pap test appear abnormal. It can be a sign of a pre-cancerous condition, but it is not always a cause for alarm.
What Causes ASCUS?
In some cases, ASCUS is caused by inflammation or infection. It can also be caused by HPV (human papillomavirus) or other changes in the cells of the cervix.
Can ASCUS Disappear?
Yes, in some cases, ASCUS can disappear without any further testing or treatment. If the Pap test results are not concerning and the woman has no other risk factors for cervical cancer, the doctor may recommend waiting 6-12 months before repeating the Pap test. In some cases, the ASCUS cells will have gone away and the test results will be normal.
When Should ASCUS Be Investigated?
If the Pap test results are concerning and the woman has other risk factors for cervical cancer, such as being over 35, having multiple sexual partners, smoking, or having a weakened immune system, the doctor may recommend further testing. This could include an HPV test, a colposcopy, or a biopsy.
In conclusion, ASCUS (Atypical Squamous Cells of Undetermined Significance) is a common diagnosis for women who have had a Pap test. While it can be concerning, it is not always a cause for alarm. In some cases, it can disappear without any further testing or treatment. However, if the Pap test results are concerning and the woman has other risk factors for cervical cancer, the doctor may recommend further testing.