What does a positive TCT (thin-layer liquid-based cytology test) result mean?

If cervical cells undergo changes, the test result will show as positive. Positive results may include low-grade precancerous lesions, high-grade precancerous lesions, cervical cancer, or atypical squamous cells. In such cases, it is recommended to further complete HPV testing of the cervix.

The purpose of liquid-based thin-layer cytology testing is to analyze the morphology of exfoliated cervical cells. As the first-line screening tool for cervical abnormalities, liquid-based thin-layer cytology is widely used in clinical practice, primarily for the screening and diagnosis of cervical precancerous lesions, and can also detect certain microbial infections such as fungi, trichomonas, and viruses.

Based on the results of cervical TCT combined with HPV testing, it is possible to roughly determine whether there are current cervical lesions. If HPV is positive and there are cytological changes—especially when the cellular abnormalities are not severe—local treatments under medical guidance, such as interferon medications for localized viral infection, may be recommended. Some patients may achieve HPV clearance and reversal of cervical cytological abnormalities through medication.