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SMEAR RESULT- LOW GRADE DYSKARYOSIS - but not HPV - Query???

SuzyQ2469
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I have just received my smear results back and it says I have abnormal cells called low grade dyskaryosis it says it sometimes caused by a virus called human papillomavirus (HPV)

But then goes on to say that the laboratory also tested for HPV and found that I do not have HPV.

Then it goes on to say that they won’t be retesting or doing another smear until the year 2024 as I am now 50 years old.

This is very worrying for me, I have rang to make an appointment to speak with my GP but the receptionist wouldn’t book me in and said the GP will call me next Tuesday!  So I have to wait to speak to her.

Can someone tell me if I can get a second test / smear or some form of explanation please?  How much is a private examination?  I dont want to wait 5 years incase there is something seriously wrong and it would be too late in 5 years time.

 

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    Hi SuzyQ,

    These are low level abnormal cells which the body can clear on its own, and you would not get another smear on the NHS earlier than their set date as there are set guidelines which they follow in terms of the timing of smears. I’m sorry I don’t know what a private smear would cost, but I’m not sure what else you could expect it to show?

    Having abnormal cells is an indication of having the hpv virus in your system- you can have hpv in your system but it not show up...it can lie dormant in your body for a long time and if you are tested for hpv when it’s dormant it will not show up. However, low level abnormal cells are not cancer and having hpv does not mean you will develop cancer. Your doctor will refer you to a gynaecologist if any further examinations or tests are required, and the procedure to remove abnormal cells at this stage is very straightforward. But it is very likely that your body will be able to clear them itself, and there will not be anything serious in having this level of abnormal cells. 

    Hopefully I have helped a little, but please feel free to ask any other questions before you can chat to your doctor if you need any more help in the meantime. x

     

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