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Pap smear and HPV
Many medical researches confirm a close association between abnormal results of Pap smear and HPV infection. HPV (Human Papilloma Virus) infects cutaneous and mucosal membranes in different parts of the body. There are more than 100 HPV types and some of these types affect genital organs, causing abnormal changes in the epithelial cells.
One of the most frequent sites of HPV infection is the cervix. Most often the cervix is infected by HPV during sexual intercourse. HPV infection usually develops without visible signs and symptoms. That is why health care providers use special tests to detect HPV, for example, Pap smear and HPV DNA test.
A Pap smear is a collection of epithelial cells from the cervix for a cytological examination. This test discovers cellular changes caused by different conditions, including HPV infection. If a woman receives an abnormal Pap smear and HPV infected cells are detected on her cervix she is at risk of cervical cancer. It is important to follow a doctor’s recommendations and have a regular follow-up in such cases.
The therapy for abnormal results of Pap smear and HPV related diseases depends on the location and the severity of lesions. Sometimes a pharmacotherapy is sufficient, but it is also possible that lesions should be removed by surgery. An adequate management for patients with cervical abnormalities must be determined by a medical specialist.
Some people seek for professional advice relative to the screening and treatment of HPV infection. It is possible to get the information about Pap smear and HPV on special sites or from health care providers.
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