Cancer Research UK main site

CIN2 after smear test, no abnormalities found in colp

Golifego
Offline

Hi all, 

 

I wondered if anyone else has been in this situation... 

I had my first smear test, it came back HPV positive CIN2. Then I was told I would have a LETZ treatment 6 weeks after I had the smear. 

I arrived for my LETZ, they said nope today we are doing a cervical punch / biopsy instead. That was a bit weird but I figured when they have a good look in there they will see if they need to perform the LETZ. They began and saw 1/2 of my cervix had white cells on it (after the dye), they then removed most of it. They said they could see where my smear test was conducted, that it had left a mark. 

 

6 weeks later, I get the result that yes my smear showed abnormalities of CIN2, but the cells taken in the biopsy showed no signs of abnormality. But we saw the abnormal cells and they took photos of it for my file. How can it be abnormal and then be visible but then come back clear? 

 

I feel a bit confused ?? Thank you for anyone who has taken the time to read this. 

 

  • Offline

    Hi and thank for posting

    When the cervix is painted with a solution of acetic acid, it will show white areas on the cervix - but they don't always necessarily mean abnormal areas. They can be seen on normal surfaces , but they may show up differently in terms of thickness and irregularity.

    Biopsies are the most accurate way of looking for abnormal cells as they look at pieces of tissue under the microscope , so it's good that that they were taken and looked at closely- this is commonly done.

    They can change grade and with the 6 week wait, the cells can have reverted back to normal. Again, this isn't unusual.

    If you have any remaining queries, do get back to the colposcopy clinic. The GP will also have received the report back from the clinic, so may be able to fill you in with some more details. The important thing is that you will have another smear in 6 months time to check that everything has remained clear.

    If you would like to talk this through with one of us here on the helpline, do give us a ring - the number to call is Freephone 0808 800 4040 and the lines are open from 9am till 5pm Monday to Friday.

    All the best

    Wanda

Speak to a nurse

Quick links

Follow us

Registered with Fundraising Regulator (logo)
Cancer Research UK is a registered charity in England and Wales (1089464), Scotland (SC041666), the Isle of Man (1103) and Jersey (247). A company limited by guarantee. Registered company in England and Wales (4325234) and the Isle of Man (5713F). Registered address: 2 Redman Place, London, E20 1JQ.