Pap Tests/Pelvic Exam Abnormalities/HPV

Definition
  A Pap test (sometimes known as a Pap Smear) is a simple procedure in which cells from the cervix(the lower, narrow end of the uterus) are scraped form the cervix for examination under a microscope.  It is used to detect cancer and changes that may lead to cancer.  A Pap smear can also show conditions, such as infection or inflammation, that are not cancer. It may also detect infections and abnormalities in the endocervix and endometrium but it is principally a test for cervical dysplasia a cellular condition caused by Human Papilloma Virus.

A pelvic exam is when a doctor examines the uterus, vagina, ovaries, fallopian tubes, bladder and rectum to see if there is any abnormality in the size, shape or tenderness of those areas. During a pelvic exam, an instrument called a speculum is used to widen the vagina so that the upper portion of the vagina and cervix can be seen.

Why are These Exams Important?
A Pap test and pelvic exam are important parts of a woman's routine health care because they can detect abnormalities that may lead to cancer of the cervix.  These abnormalities can be treated before cancer develops, and can be prevented if women have Pap tests regularly. Certain non-cancerous conditions like chlamydia and other sexually transmitted diseases can also be detected during a pelvic exam.

Women should work with their doctors to create a testing schedule for Pap tests and pelvic exams, as the frequency may vary by age, sexual activity and other risk factors present in their health or their family health history.  A general guideline is that women between 21 and 50 should plan on a Pap test and Pelvic Exam at least every three years.

Causes of HPV
Over 130 types of human HPV viruses have been identified. About a dozen of these types appear to cause cervical dysplasia and may lead to the development of cervical cancer. Other types cause warts.  Each HPV type is identified by a number (e.g. HPV 16). Some types of the virus can cause genital warts, and other types can cause changes in the cells of the cervix. Cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN), also known as cervical dysplasia usually clears up once the immune system has got rid of the virus. In some women the virus stays for a number of years, and in a few of these women the CIN will develop into cancer if it is not treated. All HPVs are transmitted by skin-to-skin contact to any substance that adheres to and transmits infectious material.

Not all HPV's cause cancer, and many of them go away on their own without intervention. therefore the regular monitoring of HPV's once they are detected.

Treatment Alternatives
   All HPVs are transmitted by skin-to-skin contact to any substance that adheres to and transmits infectious material.  If testing shows abnormal cells that have a high chance of becoming cancer, further treatment is needed.  Without treatment, those cells may turn into cancer.  Treatment options include the following:
  LEEP (loop electrosurgical excision procedure) uses an electrical current that is passed through a thin wire loop to act as a knife to remove tissue.
  Cryotherapy destroys abnormal tissue by freezing it.
  Laser Therapy uses a narrow beam of intense light to destroy or remove abnormal cells.
  Conization removes a cone-shaped piece of tissue using a knife, a laser, or the LEEP technique.

When to see a doctor
If you are over the age of 21 or have been sexually active for 3 years you should work out a schedule for Pap test and pelvic exams that fits your health conditions and lifestyle.  As with all doctor visits, it is important to make notes of any symptoms that may seem unusual or out of the ordinary.  Notes help you remember to give your doctor important details that will become part of your preventative health program.

Participate in a Clinical Research Study On HPV
If you have been diagnosed with HPV, and you may want to consider participating in a clinical research study.  Please click here to complete an on-line inquiry form or call:

602-931-4507

Compensation may be available to qualified participants for travel in the Phoenix, AZ area, including to Gilbert, Chandler, Mesa, Scottsdale, Glendale, Paradise Valley, Peoria, and Sun City.

Participation is voluntary and participants may leave the study.

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Register NOW for Pap Tests/Pelvic Exam Abnormalities/HPV Clinical Trials