The first step in diagnosing cervical cancer is usually an abnormal Pap test result. A gynecologist usually performs this minimally invasive procedure, which includes scraping cells from the cervix to analyze. The procedure may be a little uncomfortable, but should not cause a lot of pain.
Cervical cancer may also be detected if a woman is having symptoms including abnormal vaginal bleeding or pain during intercourse.
Abnormal Pap test results do not always indicate cancer.
However...if you do have abnormal results, further testing needs to occur. The next step would be to have a test called a colposcopy.
A colposcopy is an exam performed by a provider to examine the cervix. Your provider will uses a colposcope, which has magnifying lenses, to see the cervix closely and clearly. A weak solution of acetic acid will be applied to make an abnormal areas easier to see. If an abnormal area is seen on the cervix, your provider will biopsy (take a small piece of tissue) from the area. This biopsy may cause some cramping, bleeding and minimal pain which are all normal side effects.
If cancerous cells are detected, your provider will order more tests to determine if the cancer has spread. Other screening tests include...
- Pelvic Exam
- Chest X-Ray
- Computed Tomogrpahy (CT scan)
- MRI
All of these additional screening tests are precautions to determine if the cervical cancer has metastasized (spread to other organs or areas of the body). Pelvic exams are useful to determine if spread has occurred isolated to the cervix. Chest X-rays are useful to examine any lesions in the lungs. CT scans can help the provider detect any spread to lymph nodes in the abdomen and pelvis. MRI images are particularly useful to examine the pevlvis for tumors and can also detect cancer that has spread to the brain or spinal cord.
Early detection is essential to prevent pre-cancer from turning into cancer, so it is crucial to follow the current Pap tests guidelines.
Works:
http://www.cancer.org/cancer/cervicalcancer/detailedguide/cervical-cancer-diagnosis