Causes and Symptoms of Cervical Dysplasia

2 July, 2009 No Comment

What is cervical dysplasia?

Cervical dysplasia is a term used to describe the appearance of abnormal cells on the surface of the cervix (the lowest part of a woman’s uterus). The disease is also referred to as Cervical Intraepithelial Neoplasia (CIN) or as a precancerous change to the cervix. Most cases occur in women aged 25 to 35. Most cases of cervical dysplasia are rectified by the immune system without medical intervention.

Although cervical dysplasia cannot be is not cancer, it is identified as a pre-cancerous condition. A small percentage of such cases may progress to cervical cancer, usually cervical cell carcinoma (SCC), if left untreated
Cervical dysplasia can be further categorized as:

• CIN I – refers to mild dysplasia, or abnormal cell growth
• CIN II – refers to moderate or marked dysplasia
• CIN III – refers to severe dysplasia or carcinoma-in-situ (cancer)

What are the causes, incidence, and risk factors associated with cervical dysplasia?
While the exact cause of the disease remains unidentified, a number of risk factors have been identified, including:

• A chronic infection of the cervix with the sexually transmitted human papillomavirus (HPV) or an HIV infection

• Having intercourse at an early age

• Having multiple sexual partners

• Having children before age 16

• DES exposure

What are the symptoms associated with cervical dysplasia?
Cervical dysplasia is usually asymptomatic.

What are the common symptoms of cervical dysplasia and how is it diagnosed?
The following tests are used to identify cervical dysplasia:
• Pap smears
• Colposcopy showing “white epithelium”, which are mosaic shaped pattern occurring on the surface of the cervix, due to blood vessels changes.
• Colposcopy-a directed biopsy
• Endocervical curettage
• Cone biopsy

What are the treatments are used to cure cervical dysplasia?
The treatment selected usually depends upon the degree or severity of dysplasia. In many cases, cervical dysplasia will resolve itself without medical intervention.

Mild dysplasia, generally requires regular pap smears and examinations every three to six months. A diet rich in fruits and vegetables, the avoidance of cigarettes and use of condoms during sex reduces the risk of cervical dysplasia.

Severe cases of cervical dysplasia require electro cauterization, cryosurgery, laser vaporization, or surgical removal of abnormal cervical tissue growths.

However, if cervical dysplasia is left untreated, approximately 50 percent of such cases may lead to invasive cancer. The risk of cancer is generally higher for severe dysplasia (CIN III).

How can cervical dysplasia be prevented?

Cervical dysplasia can be prevented by practicing monogamy and using condoms during sexual intercourse.

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