Screening for cervical cancer
Cervical cancer is one of the most recognizable during diagnosis, even at an early stage. The main types of screening for cervical cancer include:
Pap test (Pap smear) - allows you to detect abnormal changes in cells on the cervix, which can later turn into a cancerous tumor if they are not treated properly.;
The HPV (human papillomavirus) test allows you to find a virus that can cause adverse changes in cells.
Screening for cervical cancer using a Pap test
The Pap test is considered one of the most reliable tests for cervical cancer. For prevention, this type of diagnosis is recommended for women aged 21-65 years once a year. The procedure is performed in the doctor's office. During testing, the gynecologist examines the cervix and vagina with the help of auxiliary instruments and takes a swab (some cells and mucus from and around the cervix). The cells are then placed on a plate and sent to a laboratory for examination.
Conducting an accurate Pap test requires some preparation.:
- Do not rinse the vagina with water or other liquid 3 hours before the procedure.;
- exclude the use of a tampon;
- You should not have sex a day before the test.;
- Do not use any creams or medications for the vagina.
The price of this cervical cancer screening depends on the clinic.
Screening for cervical cancer with an HPV test
Patients aged 30 years or older are recommended to undergo HPV screening together with the Pap test. Both tests can be performed simultaneously. If the screening results are normal, the risk of developing cervical cancer in the next few years is very low.
Screening for cervical cancer using liquid cytology
Liquid cytology helps to detect changes in the cervix, as well as to check the presence and activity of HPV. If a Pap smear shows the presence of atypical squamous cells of indeterminate value, liquid cytology can provide a more complete picture of the changes taking place.
The testing procedure is similar to taking a Pap smear. The key difference is that the tissue sample that is sent to the laboratory is of higher quality because it is immediately placed in a special liquid.
Liquid cytology is an effective screening method for cervical cancer. With it, the doctor can understand what kind of changes the cells of the mucosa are undergoing, and prescribe a quick treatment to stop the growth or change of tissue.
If a Pap test indicates the presence of tumor cells, colposcopy is also prescribed. This is an examination of the vagina and cervix by means of an enlarging device with a light source (colposcope). The abnormal tissue is then taken for analysis.
A biopsy is performed using a colposcope, curettage, or conization. Imaging tests are prescribed to search for metastases: ultrasound, PHG, CT, MRI and PET. If the cancer has not spread, the entire tumor is often removed during a biopsy. In modern clinics, this procedure is performed using LEEP electrosurgery. To resect the tumor, the doctor uses a small electrically heated wire and performs the procedure on an outpatient basis under local anesthesia.
