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Cervical Intraepithelial Neoplasia (CIN) - Cervical Dysplasia

Diagnosis & Tests

How is the condition diagnosed?

Diagnosis of cervical dysplasia is done with a pelvic examination that includes a Pap smear. During a pelvic exam, the cervix, vagina, and vulva are checked for signs of changes. To do a Pap smear, a provider uses a small spatula and a brush to gently scrape cells from the cervix. These cells are sent to a lab for testing.

If abnormalities are found, the Pap smear may be repeated in 3 months. Alternately, the healthcare provider may do additional tests, including:

colposcopy, a procedure in which a special microscope allows the provider to closely examine the cervix, vagina, and vulva

cervical biopsy, a procedure in which small tissue samples are taken from the cervix. This procedure is generally done in a healthcare provider's office.

cold cone biopsy, a procedure in which a large tissue sample is taken from the cervix. This procedure is normally done in an operating room under general anesthesia. The cone biopsy often removes all of the abnormal tissue.

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