WOMENS-HEALTH Messages for March, 1997: Re: Abnormal Pap Smear

Re: Abnormal Pap Smear

From: Harvey S. Marchbein, M.D. (anonymous@obgyn.net)
Wed, 19 Mar 1997 00:45:13 -0600 (CST)

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In reply to: T.N.: "Abnormal Pap Smear"

I might consider this to be a *variation of normal* and agree with a six month repeat. What I tell patients is the following, "I'm 5'7" and the average height for a male in the USA is 5'9". My height is a variation of normal but I, in no way, consider myself abnormal".

>I recently had my annual pelvic exam and my pap smear came back
>abnormal, noting "benign cellular changes". The nurse assures me there
>is no immediate cause for worry and I will have another pap smear in 6
>months.

>I have polycystic ovary disease. Could that be a reason for
>the abnormality?

Absolutely not.

>What are some causes for the above type of cellular
>changes?

Infection, irritation, inflammation and assorted other benign processes.

>What is the percentage of the same results that become
>cancerous later on?

Very unusual. Most physicians would say no greater than if your pap were *gold standard* normal.

>When I asked my nurse, she just kept saying there
>were "various" reasons and not to worry...but I can't help my curiousity
>as I have been seen yearly like clockwork for the past 10 years and this
>is the first abnormal test result.

Don't consider this abnormal. It is because of a change in the system used to read paps, called the Bethesda System. This has created many different descriptions in paps which, years ago, would have beeen called normal.

Hoping for a *normal* pap next time.

-- Harvey S. Marchbein, M.D. FACOG, FACS OBGYN.net U.S. Representative, New York Great Neck, New York

*Note: Opinions expressed here are for educational purpose only. This information is not intended to supplant the need for you to consult with your physician prior to choosing therapeutic options.

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In reply to: T.N.: "Abnormal Pap Smear"

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