If a Pap test result is ASCUS (Atypical Squamous Cells of Unknown Significance), and the HPV test is negative, it generally means that the cells taken from the Pap test are abnormal, but the cause of the abnormality is unknown. This could be due to a variety of conditions, such as inflammation, infection, or early changes that could eventually lead to cancer.
In this case, the patient should follow up with their doctor to discuss possible causes and next steps. It is usually recommended that the patient have a repeat Pap test in 6-12 months to monitor the changes and determine if additional testing, such as a colposcopy, is necessary. A colposcopy is a procedure in which a doctor looks at the cervix with a microscope to look for any abnormal cells.
If the repeat Pap test result is still ASCUS, it may be recommended that the patient have a colposcopy, as this can help determine if there are any precancerous changes that need to be monitored or treated. Depending on the results of the colposcopy, additional testing or treatment may be necessary.
It is important to note that having an HPV negative, ASCUS Pap test result does not necessarily mean that cancer will not develop in the future. However, it does mean that the risk of developing cancer is lower than if the HPV test was positive. Following up with your doctor and having a repeat Pap test is the best way to ensure that any changes in the cervix are monitored and addressed as soon as possible.