Cancer Research UK main site

Abnormal results after smear - confused over CIN grading

Jen189
Offline

Hi everyone.

I had an abnormal result after a smear plus I was positive for HPV. I went for a colposcopy and had a punch biopsy taken and the results came back as CIN3 cells. I have had these removed via LLETZ and just received my letter today which says the sample removed was CIN1.

I'm confused as to how CIN3 showed up a couple of months ago and now CIN1. Can anyone please explain to me why they test again after removal when the biopsy has already graded the cells? I'm so confused

Thank you

  • Offline

    Hi Jen

    It is possible to have more than one level of CIN at the same time on your cervix. It may be that there was a tiny spot of CIN3 which was removed by the punch biopsy, and when you went for your treatment, the pathology showed that CIN1 cells had also been removed. Results are always examined again after treatment to confirm the diagnosis. The Lletz will have taken more than a punch biopsy.

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.