Receiving news that a recent pap test's results have come back abnormal can result in a scary time for many women. The causes for an abnormal test results can vary in severity, however, and most women should not be alarmed.

Tests

During a pap smear, the doctor takes a sample of cells from the cervix and prepares them for analysis at a laboratory. The lab then screens the cells for signs of infection and squamous cells within the sample that may indicate a serious threat, such as cervical cancer.

Cells

The cells in the sample may reveal atypical squamous cells or squamous intraepithial lesions, either of which could indicate that the patient is at risk for cervical cancer. A doctor will usually recommend a second, more rigorous test if the cells demonstrate a risk of cancer.

Infection

Human papilloma virus (HPV) is a major reason for abnormal pap tests. HPV is spread via intercourse and is usually fought successfully by the woman's immune system. If the virus is resistant to the immune system, it can develop into a precancerous condition, cervical intraepithelial neoplasia.

Inconclusive

In some cases, the doctor does not take a large enough sample for the laboratory to be able to analyze. In the event of an inconclusive pap test, a second sample may be needed.

Future

Women with abnormal pap tests may require further testing via colposcopy, a test that allows the doctor to identify abnormal cells on the cervix, or with a biopsy of the abnormal cells.

Considerations

Erroneous results are sometimes reported by medical labs, creating false positives and false negative results. Occasionally atypical squamous cells are found that are not precancerous. These results can usually be verified with a second pap test, colposcopy or biopsy.

Source:

Womenshealth.gov: Pap Test

American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists: Pap Tests

Cancer.gov: Pap Test