Tag: cervical cancer

Unlocking the Mysteries of Cervical Squamous Atypical Hyperplasia

JiangRuoan

– Pap smears can detect atypical squamous cells in the cervix.
– The presence of abnormal squamous cells does not necessarily mean cervical cancer.
– Other possible causes of atypical squamous cells include HPV infection, benign cellular changes, cervical cysts or polyps, and low hormone levels in menopausal or post-menopausal patients.
– Further testing, such as re-analyzing the cell sample for HPV or additional exams like cervical biopsies, endocervical sampling exams, and colposcopies, may be recommended after an atypical Pap smear result.
– Detection of cancerous squamous cells during a Pap smear requires prompt treatment.
– Early detection of cervical cancer allows for more treatment options.
– Moffitt Cancer Center offers comprehensive diagnostic tests and treatments for cervical cancer, backed by the latest research and clinical trials.
– If someone has recently received abnormal Pap smear results with atypical squamous cells, they can call or submit an online form to request an appointment with a gynecologic oncologist at Moffitt Cancer Center.
– Virtual visits may be available, but in-person examination and evaluation are typically necessary for treatment decisions.

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Understanding the Impact of Cervical Intraepithelial Carcinoma: Insights

JiangRuoan

– The main cause of Cervical Intraepithelial Carcinoma (CIN) is an infection called the human papilloma virus (HPV).
– There are over 100 types of HPV, some of which can affect the cervix.
– Types of HPV that cause abnormal cell changes in the cervix are called high-risk HPV.
– The body’s immune system usually gets rid of the HPV infection naturally and there are often no symptoms.
– In some cases, the immune system does not clear the infection and the virus can stay in the body for a longer time.
– If the cervix is affected by HPV for a prolonged period, it can cause damage that may eventually develop into CIN.
– HPV is very common and most people are infected with it at some point, regardless of sexual orientation or relationship status.
– HPV can still affect individuals who have not been sexually active for years.
– The virus can live on the skin around the whole genital area and can easily be transmitted through any type of sexual contact, including skin-to-skin genital contact or sharing sex toys.
– Using a condom or other barrier contraception may reduce the risk of HPV infection, but it does not provide complete protection.

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Cervical Intraepithelial Neoplasm: Understanding Diagnosis, Treatment, and Prevention

JiangRuoan

– Cervical dysplasia is a precancerous condition where abnormal cells grow on the surface of the cervix.
– Another name for cervical dysplasia is cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN).
– Most people with cervical dysplasia do not develop cancer.
– Cervical dysplasia is classified on a scale from one to three, with CIN 1 affecting about one-third of the thickness of the epithelium, CIN 2 affecting about one-third to two-thirds of the epithelium, and CIN 3 affecting more than two-thirds.
– Cervical dysplasia primarily affects sexually active individuals assigned female at birth (AFAB) who have a cervix.
– It is most common among women of childbearing age, particularly aged 25 to 35.
– Approximately 250,000 to 1 million cisgender women in the U.S. are diagnosed with cervical dysplasia each year.
– Cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) is the abnormal growth of cells on the surface of the cervix that could potentially lead to cervical cancer. CIN is graded on a 1-3 scale, with 3 being the most abnormal.
– Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection is necessary for the development of CIN. Many women with HPV infection never develop CIN or cervical cancer. Typically, HPV resolves on its own. However, those with an HPV infection that lasts more than one or two years have a higher risk of developing a higher grade of CIN.
– Most cases of CIN either remain stable or are eliminated by the person’s immune system without the need for intervention. However, a small percentage of cases progress to cervical cancer if left untreated.
– There are no specific symptoms of CIN alone, but signs and symptoms of cervical cancer may include abnormal bleeding, abnormal discharge, changes in bladder or bowel function, pelvic pain, or abnormal appearance or palpation of the cervix.
– The cause of CIN is chronic infection of the cervix with HPV, especially infection with high-risk HPV types 16 or 18.
– Risk factors for developing CIN include infection with high-risk types of HPV, immunodeficiency, poor diet, multiple sex partners, lack of condom use, and cigarette smoking.
– Cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) is commonly associated with infection by human papillomavirus (HPV).
– Most women with HPV infection do not develop high-grade intraepithelial lesions or cancer.
– There are over 100 different types of HPV, with approximately 40 known to affect the anogenital area.
– The Digene HPV test is a highly accurate test for HPV, serving as both a direct diagnosis and adjuvant to the Pap smear.
– A colposcopy with directed biopsy is the standard for detecting CIN.
– Diagnosis of CIN or cervical carcinoma requires a biopsy for analysis.
– The Bethesda System for Reporting Cervical/Vaginal Cytologic Diagnoses provides a uniform way to describe abnormal epithelial cells.
– CIN is classified into grades: CIN 1 (mild dysplasia), CIN 2 (moderate dysplasia), and CIN 3 (severe dysplasia)
– CIN 3 can also be referred to as cervical carcinoma in situ.
– Locations of CIN findings can be described in terms of quadrants or clock face positions.
– Cervical intraepithelial neoplasm (CIN) is classified as LSIL or HSIL based on its severity.
– Screening for CIN can be done through Pap smear or testing for HPV.
– The accuracy of Pap smear results can vary.
– Abnormal Pap smear results may lead to colposcopy, which involves examining the cervix under magnification and taking a biopsy.
– HPV testing can identify high-risk HPV types responsible for CIN.
– HPV vaccination is the primary prevention method for CIN and cervical cancer, but it does not protect against all types of HPV known to cause cancer.
– Appropriate management and treatment are used as secondary prevention for cervical cancer cases.
– Treatment for CIN 1 is not recommended if it lasts fewer than two years, as it may clear on its own. Instead, close monitoring is advised.
– Treatment for higher-grade CIN involves removal or destruction of the abnormal cells.
– Retinoids may be effective in causing regression of CIN2.
– Therapeutic vaccines are being tested in clinical trials.
– The lifetime recurrence rate of CIN is about 20%.
– Surgical treatment of CIN may increase the risk of infertility or subfertility.
– Women receiving treatment for CIN during pregnancy may have an increased risk of premature birth.
– People with HIV and CIN 2+ should be managed according to general recommendations.
– Most cases of CIN spontaneously regress. Left untreated, about 70% of CIN 1 will regress within one year and 90% within two years. About 50% of CIN 2 cases will regress within two years. Progression to cervical carcinoma in situ (CIS) occurs in approximately 11% of CIN 1 and 22% of CIN 2 cases. Progression to invasive cancer occurs in approximately 1% of CIN 1, 5% of CIN 2, and at least 12% of CIN 3 cases.
– Treatment does not affect the chances of getting pregnant but is associated with an increased risk of miscarriage in the second trimester.
– Between 250,000 and 1 million American women are diagnosed with CIN annually.
– The estimated annual incidence of CIN in the United States is 4% for CIN 1 and 5% for CIN 2 and CIN 3.

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Discovering the Causes and Treatment of Cervical Squamous Cell Dysplasia: Empowering Women Through Knowledge

JiangRuoan

– Regular pelvic examinations are important for women aged 21 and over.
– A Pap smear is a test to detect cervical cancer or abnormal cells.
– Cervical cells become abnormal before turning into cancer, providing an opportunity for early detection.
– The cervix is the lower part of the uterus that opens into the vagina.
– During a Pap smear, cells are gently scraped from the cervix and sent to a lab for examination.
– Abnormal Pap smear results may require further testing, such as a colposcopy.
– Testing for HPV infection, the virus that can cause cervical cancer, may also be necessary.
– If diagnosed with cervical cancer, additional tests will determine the stage and appropriate treatment.
– Treatment options depend on factors such as the stage of cancer, tumor size, age, general health, and desire for future children.
– Treatment can involve surgery, freezing or burning abnormal tissue, radical hysterectomy, radiation, or chemotherapy.
– Pap smears are not 100% accurate, and a small number of cervical cancer cases may be missed.
– Follow-up Pap smears are important for detecting changes in time for treatment.
– Cervical dysplasia is typically diagnosed during a routine pap test.
– Results of the pap test can be normal, inconclusive, or abnormal.
– Inconclusive results do not indicate cervical dysplasia and may require a repeat pap test.
– Abnormal results are known as cervical dysplasia or squamous intraepithelial lesion (SIL).
– Further testing, such as a colposcopy, may be needed to determine the severity of cell changes.
– Biopsies taken during a colposcopy can help identify abnormal areas and are not very uncomfortable.
– Cervical dysplasia found on a biopsy is called cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN).
– CIN is categorized into three levels: CIN I (mild dysplasia), CIN II (moderate to marked dysplasia), and CIN III (severe dysplasia to carcinoma in situ).
– An HPV test can be done at the same time or separately from the pap test to detect the presence and type of HPV.

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Understanding the Risks, Symptoms, and Treatment Options: Squamous Cell Carcinoma of Cervix

JiangRuoan

– Squamous cell carcinoma of the cervix occurs when cells in the cervix become abnormal and start to multiply uncontrollably.
– Advances in medical technology and Pap tests have helped identify cervical cancer, including squamous cell carcinoma of the cervix, earlier.
– Human papillomavirus (HPV) plays a role in causing squamous cell carcinoma of the cervix, but not everyone with HPV develops it.
– Risk factors for squamous cell carcinoma of the cervix include multiple sexual encounters, weakened immune system, smoking, and exposure to the drug DES during pregnancy.
– Early stages of squamous cell carcinoma of the cervix do not usually show signs or symptoms, emphasizing the importance of regular Pap smears and pelvic exams.
– Symptoms of advanced squamous cell carcinoma of the cervix may include unusual vaginal bleeding, watery or bloody discharge, and pelvic pain.
– Regular screening for squamous cell carcinoma of the cervix is recommended to start at age 21.
– HPV DNA tests and Pap tests are used to detect cervical abnormalities, including squamous cell carcinoma of the cervix, and HPV infection.
– If squamous cell carcinoma of the cervix is suspected, a colposcopy may be performed to examine the cervix more thoroughly, potentially including a punch biopsy to collect cell samples.
– The article discusses various treatment options for squamous cell carcinoma of the cervix, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted drug therapy, and immune therapy. It emphasizes the importance of considering individual health and preferences when deciding on a treatment plan.
– The article also suggests ways to cope with a squamous cell carcinoma of the cervix diagnosis, such as seeking information, finding support, setting achievable goals, and taking care of oneself.

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Preventing Carcinoma of Uterine Cervix Through Routine Screenings

JiangRuoan

– Cervical cancer starts in the cells of the cervix
– Dysplasia appears in the cervical tissue before cancer cells form
– Untreated abnormal cells can become cancerous and spread deeper into the cervix and surrounding areas
– Pap tests can help identify cervical cancer earlier
– Human papilloma virus (HPV) plays a role in causing cervical cancer
– Over 85% of the general population has been exposed to HPV
– HPV vaccine and regular screening tests can reduce the risk of cervical cancer
– Risk factors for cervical cancer include multiple sexual encounters, weakened immune system, smoking, and exposure to the drug DES during pregnancy
– Early stages of cervical cancer often have no signs or symptoms
– Symptoms of advanced cervical cancer can include unusual vaginal bleeding, watery bloody discharge, and pelvic pain
– Regular screening for cervical cancer is recommended starting at age 21
– Pap tests and HPV DNA tests are used to screen for abnormalities and HPV infection
– Colposcopy may be performed if cervical cancer is suspected
– Diagnostic methods include Pap smear tests, colposcopy, endocervical curettage, and additional tests or tissue sample collection if needed
– Treatment options for cervical cancer depend on the stage and individual preferences
– Surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted drug therapy, and immune therapy are possible treatment options
– Ways to reduce anxiety and feel more in control include learning about the condition, seeking support from family and friends, joining support groups, setting achievable goals, and taking care of oneself.

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Cervical Carcinoma in Situ: Risk Factors, Prevention, Treatment

JiangRuoan

– Carcinoma in situ
– Cervical cancer
– International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (FIGO)
– Staging system
– Stage 0
– Surface layer of cells lining the cervix
– Pre-cancer
– Cancer treatment
– Roman numerals
– Advanced cancer
– Stage I
– Stage IA1
– Stage IA2
– Stage IB1
– Stage IB2
– Stage IB3
– Tumor size and depth
– Microscopic examination
– Visible tumor
– Lymph nodes
– Pelvis
– Vagina
– Bladder
– Rectum
– Metastasis
– Lungs
– Liver
– Brain
– Bone
– Treatment options
– Local ablative measures
– Excisional measures
– Cryosurgery
– Laser ablation
– Loop excision
– Surgical removal
– Total hysterectomy
– Radical hysterectomy
– Conization
– Lymph node dissection
– Radiation therapy
– Pelvic radiation therapy
– High-risk factors
– Combined external beam radiation
– Brachytherapy
– Radical vaginal trachelectomy
– Fertility preservation
– Pretrachelectomy MRI
– Minimally invasive surgical techniques
– Laparoscopic techniques
– Robotically assisted laparoscopic techniques
– Extensive lymphadenectomy
– Postoperative irradiation
– Chemotherapy
– Platinum-based doublet
– Docetaxel
– Gemcitabine
– Ifosfamide
– 5-fluorouracil
– Mitomycin
– Irinotecan
– Topotecan
– Pemetrexed
– Vinorelbine
– Bevacizumab
– FDA approval
– Persistent cancer
– Recurrent cancer
– Metastatic cancer
– Overall survival
– Tumor shrinkage
– Hypertension
– Thromboembolic events
– GI fistulas
– Pembrolizumab
– PD-L1 expression
– Tumor mutational burden
– KEYNOTE-158 trial
– Objective response rate
– Complete response rate
– Partial response rate
– Duration of response

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HPV: Understanding the Risks, Symptoms, and Prevention Strategies

JiangRuoan

– HPV is the most common sexually transmitted infection (STI)
– There were about 43 million HPV infections in 2018, primarily among people in their late teens and early 20s
– HPV can cause health problems, including genital warts and cancers
– HPV is different from HIV and herpes
– HPV is spread through vaginal, anal, or oral sex, as well as close skin-to-skin touching during sex
– People with HPV can transmit the infection even if they have no signs or symptoms
– HPV can go away on its own within two years in most cases, but if it persists, it can lead to health problems like genital warts and cancer
– HPV can cause cervical and other cancers, including cancer of the vulva, vagina, penis, or anus, as well as oropharyngeal cancer (cancer in the back of the throat)
– Genital warts and cancers are caused by different types of HPV
– People with weak immune systems, including those with HIV, may be at higher risk for developing health problems from HPV
– To avoid HPV and its health problems, it is recommended to get vaccinated, particularly within the recommended age groups
– Routine screening for cervical cancer is important for women aged 21 to 65
– Using condoms consistently can lower the chances of getting HPV, but they do not provide complete protection
– Being in a mutually monogamous relationship or having sex only with someone who is HPV-free can also reduce the risk of contracting HPV
– CDC recommends HPV vaccination for all preteens at age 11 or 12, or can start at age 9
– HPV vaccination is recommended for everyone through age 26, if not vaccinated already
– Vaccination is not recommended for everyone older than age 26, but some adults age 27 through 45 who are not already vaccinated may decide to get the HPV vaccine after speaking with their healthcare provider
– Most sexually active adults have already been exposed to HPV, although not necessarily all of the HPV types targeted by vaccination
– Having a new sex partner at any age is a risk factor for getting a new HPV infection
– There is no test to find out a person’s “HPV status” and there is no approved HPV test to find HPV in the mouth or throat
– HPV tests are recommended for screening women aged 30 years and older, but not for men, adolescents, or women under the age of 30
– Most people with HPV do not know they have the infection and never develop symptoms or health problems from it
– Genital warts caused by HPV affected roughly 340,000 to 360,000 people yearly
– About one in 100 sexually active adults in the U.S. has genital warts at any given time
– Nearly 12,000 women living in the U.S. have cervical cancer every year, with more than 4,000 women dying from it even with screening and treatment
– Every year, about 19,400 women and 12,100 men in the U.S. experience cancers caused by HPV
– Pregnant individuals with HPV can develop genital warts or abnormal cell changes on the cervix
– Routine cervical cancer screening can detect these abnormal cell changes
– Pregnant individuals should continue to undergo routine cervical cancer screening
– There is no treatment for the HPV virus itself
– Treatment options are available for health problems caused by HPV

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Cervical Dysplasia: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment, and Prevention

JiangRuoan

– Cervical dysplasia is typically diagnosed during a routine pap test.
– A pap test involves swabbing the cervix to collect a sample of cells.
– The cells are sent to a lab, and results can take up to 3 weeks.
– Pap test results can be normal, inconclusive, or abnormal.
– Inconclusive results may indicate a simple infection in the cervix or vagina.
– Further testing or diagnoses will depend on age and medical history.
– An abnormal result is known as cervical dysplasia or a squamous intraepithelial lesion (SIL).
– There are different classifications of precancerous cells: Low-grade SIL (LSIL), high-grade SIL (HSIL), or atypical glandular or squamous cells (ASCUS).
– Additional testing, such as a colposcopy, is needed to determine the severity of the cell changes.
– A biopsy of the cervix may be taken during a colposcopy to identify the abnormal area.
– Cervical dysplasia found on a biopsy is called cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN), which has 3 levels: CIN I (mild dysplasia), CIN II (moderate to marked dysplasia), and CIN III (severe dysplasia to carcinoma in situ).
– An HPV test can be done at the same time or separately to identify the presence and type of HPV.

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