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Abnormal cells back 6 months after lletz

Delicateflower
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I had lletz treatment 6 months ago, I then had to have a follow up smear 6 months after and my results have come back with more abnormal cells. I have to go back for another colposcopy and biopsy. 

I have read that this rarely happens. I am worried that the cells have come back in such a short time? Is this normal? Will I have to have Lletz again? Will I have other options? 

Thanks for reading 

  • Hello and thanks for posting,

    In about 10% of patient cases, further treatment after an initial LLETZ is required. Treatments can include another LLETZ, or a cone biopsy. Sometimes laser treatment or cryotherapy can be used. Often it is having persistent HPV infection which can cause cell changes, and the need for more treatment.

    The organisation Jo's Trust has useful information about this,

    https://www.jostrust.org.uk/information/abnormal-cells/treating-abnormal-cells

    Treatments that are considered, will depend on the results of further biopsies taken. So, it isn't possible for us to more specific, which I appreciate is difficult.

    Hopefully you will get to find out more soon from your colposcopy team.

    Wishing you the best,

    Vanda

  • Offline in reply to CRUK Nurse Vanda

    Hi I have the same problem!  6mths ago I had to have a lletz procedure for cin 3 level abnormal cells, all went well but after my follow up smear abnormal cells with borderline hpv was still existing. I need to go for another colposcopy.  So my query is have cells grown back so quickly or where they just missed at my procedure?  I have had this issue 3 times now n wondering  is an hysterectomy the best option? 

  • Offline in reply to Lynbelfast

    Also the whole thing that hpv is caused by sex I find difficult.  I had it on my 20s when I wasn't sexual active and now on my late 40s where om in a,secure relationship..hpv n abnormal cells can lie dormant for yrs n only now its coming to the fore.  I've read it's can be hereditary or due to other things in body. Doctors need to be more clear on causes as it can cause lot of worry or make you feel ashamed

  • in reply to Lynbelfast

    Hello and thanks for your enquiry,

    It is not unusual to have some cells still present after initial treatment. A follow up colposcopy is done to check as to whether any further treatment is required.

    A small percentage of women will need further treatment, such as a repeat LLETZ procedure. A cone biopsy procedure may also be suggested.

    Your colposcopy team will discuss with you what may be necessary moving forward.

    I hope that things go well for you,

    Best wishes,

    Vanda    

  • Offline in reply to CRUK Nurse Vanda

    Thsnk you Vanda. I did not think it was common bit it appears alot of women do experience this n it's put my mind at ease. Yes I'm waiting on a,coloscopy

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