Cervical dysplasia

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Main article: dysplasia

See also: cervical intraepithelial neoplasia

Cervical dysplasia refers to a medical condition of the cervix in which squamous cells on the surface of the cervix undergo a potentially premalignant transformation. This abnormal growth (dysplasia) may lead to the development of cervical cancer if left untreated. An abnormal Pap smear may lead to a recommendation for colposcopy of the cervix during which the cervix is examined under magnification. A biopsy of the cervix is taken of any abnormal appearing areas. Cervical dysplasia can be diagnosed by biopsy.

Cervical dysplasia appears to arise from a chronic infection of the cervix by Human Papilloma Virus (HPV). This is the same type of virus that causes the common wart. Over 100 types of HPV have been identified. About a dozen of these types appear to cause cervical dysplasia and may lead to the development of cervical cancer. Hormonal treatments such as birth control pills have also been linked to higher rates of cervical dysplasia.^{[citation needed]}

In many cases, cervical dysplasia will regress without treatment. A diet rich in fruits and vegetables, smoking avoidance and condom use increase regression of cervical dysplasia.

Cervical dysplasia is curable, although the lifetime recurrence rate is 20%. Methods used to treat cervical dysplasia require destruction of the surface cells of the cervix. These methods include cryocautery, electrocautery, laser cautery, LEEP, and cervical conization.

[edit] Prevalence of cervical dysplasia

Between 250,000 and 1 million American women are diagnosed with cervical dysplasia annually. Women can develop cervical dysplasia at any age, however, women generally develop dysplasia between the ages of 25 to 35. Without treatment, 30% to 50% may progress to invasive cancer. If caught early, dysplasia is usually curable.^[1]