What are other Names for this Condition? (Also known as/Synonyms)

• Cervical Intraepithelial Neoplasia
• Precancerous changes of the Cervix

What is Cervical Dysplasia? (Definition/Background Information)

• Cervical Dysplasia is the abnormal growth of cells on the surface of the cervix, which is the lower portion of the womb. It is a condition that affects only women
• The risk factors for Cervical Dysplasia include human papillomavirus infection and having multiple sexual partners. However, the exact cause of Cervical Dysplasia is still being researched into
• In most cases, women do not present any signs and symptoms of Cervical Dysplasia. The condition is usually diagnosed through a Pap smear
• Treatments vary widely from periodic observation to surgical removal of the abnormal tissue. The prognosis of Cervical Dysplasia is generally excellent with suitable treatment. However, in some cases, the abnormal growth may advance to cancer

Who gets Cervical Dysplasia? (Age and Sex Distribution)

• Cervical Dysplasia is exclusively observed in women; more often in the 30-40 year age group. The average age for developing the condition is around 39 years
• Cervical Dysplasia may occur in all races and ethnic groups and no specific predilection is observed

What are the Risk Factors for Cervical Dysplasia? (Predisposing Factors)

The risk factors for Cervical Dysplasia may include:

• Contracting human papillomavirus (HPV) infection: HPV is a virus that is often transmitted through sexual contact
• Having multiple sexual partners
• Using birth control pills for extended periods of time
• Taking medication that suppresses the immune system (such as during a chemotherapy)
• Giving birth at a young age; being sexually active at a young age
• Smoking

It is important to note that having a risk factor does not mean that one will get the condition. A risk factor increases ones chances of getting a condition compared to an individual without the risk factors. Some risk factors are more important than others.

Also, not having a risk factor does not mean that an individual will not get the condition. It is always important to discuss the effect of risk factors with your healthcare provider.

What are the Causes of Cervical Dysplasia? (Etiology)

• The direct cause of Cervical Dysplasia is unknown; it is believed that there may be multiple causal factors involved
• Because of the strong association of Cervical Dysplasia with human papillomavirus infection in many individuals, it is believed that this virus may cause the abnormal growth

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Cervical Dysplasia?

Most women with Cervical Dysplasia do not show any symptoms. In rare cases, the signs and symptoms of the condition may include:

• Vaginal discharge
• Genital warts
• Abnormal bleeding

How is Cervical Dysplasia Diagnosed?

Cervical Dysplasia usually remains asymptomatic, and hence, it is usually diagnosed during an annual Pap smear exam through:

• A Pap smear: It involves the collection of a small sample of cells from the cervix that is tested for abnormalities
• A human papillomavirus test may be performed to detect if there is an abnormal growth that is caused by the virus
• A colposcopy, which is a magnified examination of the vagina, cervix, and vulva, may be done to determine the severity of the condition
• A biopsy of the abnormal tissue sample may be taken to detect, if the growth has become cancerous

Many clinical conditions may have similar signs and symptoms. Your healthcare provider may perform additional tests to rule out other clinical conditions to arrive at a definitive diagnosis.

What are possible Complications of Cervical Dysplasia?

• The potential complication of Cervical Dysplasia includes transformation of the condition to malignancy
• If abnormal growth continues, Cervical Dysplasia may develop to cervical cancer. This is more likely to take place in cases of severe dysplasia

How is Cervical Dysplasia Treated?

The treatment of Cervical Dysplasia varies widely depending on the rate and amount of tissue growth observed. In many mild cases, the dysplasia resolves on its own. In other cases, the following treatments may be considered:

• Laser therapy: The abnormal cells are destroyed using lasers
• Loop electrosurgical excision procedure, which is used to remove abnormal tissue with a thin wire loop
• Cryocauterization can help destroy the abnormal cells by freezing them
• Cone biopsy, which is a surgical procedure performed to remove the abnormal segment of the cervix (in severe cases)

How can Cervical Dysplasia be Prevented?

Currently, there are no methods available to completely prevent Cervical Dysplasia. However, in order to minimize the risk, women may consider the following factors:

• Get Pap smears done regularly as recommended by the healthcare provider
• Practice safe sex
• Avoid sex with multiple partners
• Avoid smoking
• Avail HPV vaccine at an age recommended by the healthcare provider

What is the Prognosis of Cervical Dysplasia? (Outcomes/Resolutions)

• In most cases, Cervical Dysplasia has a good prognosis with adequate treatment
• Nevertheless, even if it resolves on its own or is treated effectively, it is important to have regular checkups to detect any early recurrences

Additional and Relevant Useful Information for Cervical Dysplasia:

• The exact effect of Cervical Dysplasia on fertility is unknown
• Cervical cancer, the second most common cancer in women worldwide, is a malignant (capable of invading nearby and distant tissues) tumor of the cervix, which is the lower part of the uterus

The following article link will help you understand cervical cancer:

https://www.dovemed.com/diseases-conditions/cervical-cancer/