Which tests are needed for cervical cancer screening?
Disease description:
A friend of mine was recently diagnosed with cervical cancer, and I'm worried about having this condition too. I'm thinking of going to the hospital for a cervical cancer screening. What tests should I take?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Zhao Xiaodong
The main examinations for cervical cancer include:
1. Cervical cytology and HPV testing: This is the foundation of cervical cancer screening. By collecting exfoliated cells from the cervix, these tests check for cellular abnormalities and infection with human papillomavirus (HPV), especially high-risk types of HPV.
2. Colposcopy: If abnormalities are detected in cytology or HPV testing, the doctor may recommend a colposcopy. This procedure uses magnification to closely examine the cervix for signs of lesions.
3. Cervical biopsy: During colposcopy, the doctor may remove tissue from suspicious areas for histopathological examination to confirm whether cervical cancer or precancerous lesions are present.
4. Imaging studies: Such as color Doppler ultrasound, CT, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), which help determine the size, location, and possible metastasis of the tumor.
5. Serum tumor marker tests: Including squamous cell carcinoma antigen (SCC) and cytokeratin 19 fragment (CYFRA21-1), which can aid in the diagnosis of cervical cancer.
