Cervical Cancer Diagnosis and Screening

What instrument is used in endocervical curettage to scrape a tissue sample from the cervix?

What type of anesthesia is usually used for cone biopsy?

What is the purpose of staging tests in cervical cancer diagnosis?

What is the highest stage of cervical cancer?

What type of test makes pictures of the body to show the location and size of the cancer?

What is the name of the procedure that uses a thin, low-voltage electrified wire to take a small tissue sample?

Where is a cone biopsy usually performed?

What is the purpose of a visual examination of the bladder and rectum in cervical cancer diagnosis?

What is the recommended age to start screening for cervical cancer and precancerous changes?

What is the purpose of a Pap test?

What is the main purpose of an HPV DNA test?

What is the name of the instrument used to check for signs of cancer during a cervical exam?

What is the purpose of a cone biopsy?

How often are screening tests for cervical cancer usually repeated?

What is the purpose of a punch biopsy?

Who should you discuss your cervical cancer screening options with?

Cervical Cancer Diagnosis and Screening

Most medical organizations recommend starting cervical cancer screening at age 21.
Screening tests are typically repeated every few years.
Screening tests include:
- Pap test, which detects cancer cells and precancerous cells in the cervix.
- HPV DNA test, which tests for infection with HPV types that may lead to cervical cancer.

Diagnostic Tests

Colposcopic exam is used to check for signs of cancer, and a sample of cervical cells is removed for lab testing.
Tests may include:
- Punch biopsy, which uses a sharp tool to pinch off small samples of cervical tissue.
- Endocervical curettage, which uses a spoon-shaped instrument or thin brush to scrape a tissue sample from the cervix.
- Electrical wire loop (LEEP), which uses a low-voltage electrified wire to take a small tissue sample.
- Cone biopsy (conization), which takes deeper layers of cervical cells for testing.

Staging

Staging tests are used to determine the extent of the cancer.
Tests used for cervical cancer staging include:
- Imaging tests (X-ray, MRI, CT, and PET scan) to show the location and size of the cancer.
- Visual examination of the bladder and rectum to look for signs of cancer.
The stages of cervical cancer range from 1 to 4, with higher numbers indicating more advanced cancer.

Treatment

Treatment for cervical cancer depends on several factors, including the stage of the cancer.

Learn about cervical cancer diagnosis, screening tests, and FAQs from Mayo Clinic experts. Understand how Pap tests can detect cervical cancer and precancerous cells.