What does it mean if atypical squamous cells show up in my PAP?

Answer by  CleoHathor (81)

Atypical squamous cells are a precancerous condition. Your doctor may recommend that you have a LEEP or similar procedure to remove the cells. Yop probably will not require any other treatment, but if these cells are not removed, they may become cancer over time. There are many possible reasons for atypical cells, so check with your doctor for other tests.

Answer by  MattK (1713)

Atypical squamous cells in your PAP smear simply mean the cells do not look like picture perfect, textbook examples of cells. Infections are the most common reason. Just follow up.

Answer by  rbiales (3441)

Atypical means that they don't look the way that they would be expected to and will require further study. There are a number of possiblities, the most serious being having cervical changes, which can be treated before they become cancer and this can saver your fertility and save your life, so it's a good idea to follow up.

Answer by  KatDay (104)

It means that there may be at increased risk for developing cervical cancer and there is need to be closely monitored. Atypical cells may or may not become malignant. It also depends on the degree of change in these cells.

Answer by  djb228 (510)

Atypical squamous cells is the most common kind of abnormality on a PAP test. ASC has a number of causes, many of which are not pre-cancerous. Your doctor will follow up to find the reason for the abnormal cells and recommend treatment. DO follow through: it's worth it.

Answer by  carol20 (55)

Your doctor will give you advice on how to deal with these cells showing up in a pap smear. I think that they indicate cells that have the potential to develop into cancerous cells (I think these cell are also known as "precancerous").

Answer by  Jakecutter (1819)

This could very well be a warning sign to Cancer. These cells are precancerous symptoms. The cells would need to be removed but that may be about all.