Does an abnormal Pap test result mean cervical cancer?
An abnormal result from a Pap test (smear) means there is some change or difference in the cervical cells. Cervical cells turn over rapidly, regenerate and in this process can become abnormal or changed. There are many reasons for a change or difference including: • Infection • Inflammation • Pre-cancerous changes The abnormal changes have been classified according to the changes seen in the surface cells (squamous cells) of the cervix. Dysplasia is the term that was previously used to define the changes in the cervical squamous cells.
