Cervical Cancer

What is it
Risk Factors
Symptoms
Lab Tests
Staging
Treatment

Laboratory Tests
Cervical smear
Cervical cells are collected by brush or spatula for microscopic examination and this is a widely used screen for precancerous changes in cervical cells. Currently in the UK all women between the ages of 25 and 64 are eligible for an NHS cervical smear every three to five years depending on their age. Women should receive their first invitation for routine screening around the time of their 25th birthday. Health authorities invite women that are registered with a GP using a computerised call-recall system. This also keeps track of any follow-up smears required and, if all is well, recalls the women for screening in three or five years time. It is therefore important that all women ensure their GP has their correct name and address details and inform them of these changes. Women who have not had a regular smear test may be offered one when they attend their GP on another matter.

HPV test
The role of HPV testing is currently being evaluated and until further information is available, this form of testing is not generally available through the NHS.

Other tests

Colposcopy - a follow-up test that may be advised if abnormal cells are found on a smear or if frequent inadequate smears are obtained. Colposcopy is a simple examination that involves putting a vinegar-like solution on the cervix and then using a magnifying instrument to look closely at the cervix, checking for abnormal areas.
Biopsy – if, at colposcopy, abnormal looking areas are found on the cervix, small pieces of tissue will be removed for examination by a pathologist. A biopsy and microscopic evaluation is the only way to tell for sure whether abnormal cells are cancerous, precancerous, or reactive for some other reason.