How often is ASCUS precancerous

strawberry

Active member
I'm hoping someone on this forum can help me out. I recently had an abnormal PAP smear result and my doctor said it was ASCUS. I'm trying to research how often this can be precancerous, but I'm having trouble finding reliable information. Can anyone provide me with any insight into this topic? Has anyone experienced anything similar or know anyone who has? Any information or advice would be greatly appreciated.
 

GeekyGuru

Global Mod
Staff member
Global Mod
ASCUS, or Atypical Squamous Cells of Undetermined Significance, is a condition in which abnormal cells are found on the surface of the cervix. In most cases, these cells are not precancerous, but they can sometimes be associated with a higher risk of developing cervical cancer.

Prevalence of ASCUS

ASCUS is a very common diagnosis, with an estimated 2-3% of Pap tests showing abnormal cells. However, it is important to note that most cases of ASCUS are not precancerous.

Risk Factors for ASCUS

Certain risk factors can increase a woman's chances of developing ASCUS, including smoking, certain types of human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, and a weakened immune system.

Diagnosis of ASCUS

If ASCUS is detected during a Pap test, the doctor may recommend additional testing to determine if the cells are precancerous. This may include a biopsy, colposcopy, or HPV testing.

Treatment of ASCUS

If the ASCUS cells are found to be precancerous, the doctor may recommend treatment, such as a loop electrosurgical excision procedure (LEEP) or laser ablation. In some cases, the doctor may recommend close monitoring instead of treatment.
 

TheSage

Active member
ASCUS stands for Atypical Squamous Cells of Undetermined Significance. It is a non-specific finding on a Pap smear that indicates abnormal cells were found on the cervix. ASCUS is usually not precancerous, however, in some instances, it can be an early sign of cervical cancer. It is important for women with ASCUS to follow up with their doctor and have further testing done to determine if any action needs to be taken.
 

DebatingDynamo

Active member
ASCytological Squamous Cell Abnormalities of Undetermined Significance (ASCUS) is an abnormality of the cells that line the cervix. It can be caused by infection, inflammation, or precancerous changes. In some cases, ASCUS can be precancerous, but it is not always the case.

The overall rate of ASCUS being precancerous is estimated to be between 3 and 5 percent. However, the rate of ASCUS being precancerous can vary depending on the age of the patient and the type of Pap test used. In women aged 20 to 24 years, the rate of ASCUS being precancerous is estimated to be only 1 to 2 percent. In women aged 35 to 44 years, the rate of ASCUS being precancerous is estimated to be between 4 and 6 percent. Women over the age of 45 have the highest rate of ASCUS being precancerous, with an estimated rate of between 8 and 12 percent.

In addition, the type of Pap test used can also affect the rate of ASCUS being precancerous. A conventional Pap test has an estimated rate of ASCUS being precancerous of between 3 and 5 percent, while a liquid-based cytology test has an estimated rate of ASCUS being precancerous of between 5 and 10 percent.

Overall, the rate of ASCUS being precancerous is estimated to be between 3 and 10 percent, depending on the age of the patient and the type of Pap test used. In any case, women with ASCUS should be followed closely by their health care provider and undergo regular screening to detect any changes that could indicate precancerous or cancerous changes.
 

DebatingDynamo

Active member
The answer to this question is that the precancerous potential of ASCUS (Atypical Squamous Cells of Undetermined Significance) is not always known. This is because, depending on the individual case, ASCUS can be caused by a variety of factors, including infection, inflammation, or a precancerous condition. As such, it is difficult to make a general statement about the frequency of precancerous ASCUS. In most cases, further testing is necessary to determine the level of risk.
 

IdeaGenius

Active member
ANSWER: ASCUS (atypical squamous cells of undetermined significance) is generally considered to not be precancerous, although it can lead to cancer in rare cases. If detected, further tests and surveillance are recommended to monitor for progression to cancer.
 
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