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Cervical dysplasia
Definition:
Cervical dysplasia is the abnormal growth of cells on the surface of the cervix. Although this is not cancer, this is considered a pre-cancerous condition. Depending on the extent of changes, the condition is further categorized as: - CIN I -- mild dysplasia (a few cells are abnormal)
- CIN II -- moderate to marked dysplasia
- CIN III -- severe dysplasia to carcinoma-in-situ (cancer confined to the surface layer of the cervix)
Alternative Names:
Cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN); Precancerous changes of the cervix Text Continues Below
Causes, incidence, and risk factors:
Less than 5% of all Pap smear test results find cervical dysplasia. While the cause is unknown, a number of risk factors have been identified. Most cases occur in women aged 25 to 35. Other risk factors include: - Multiple sexual partners
- Starting sexual activity before age 18
- Having children before age 16
- DES exposure
- Having had sexually transmitted diseases, especially HPV (genital warts) or HIV infection
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