Cervical cancer is a type of cancer in which abnormal growth of cells starts in the cervical region. The lowest part of the uterus that joins the vagina is called the cervix. This leads to the development of precancerous cells. However, not all precancerous cells will turn to cancer. Different strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV) are the major cause of most cervical cancer. The body's immune system generally prevents the virus from causing problems and it usually goes away on its own in most cases. However, this virus can survive for years in the body of some and causes cervical cells to become cancerous.
Let's check how is cervical cancer detected.
Diagnosis of Cervical Cancer
Cervical cancer diagnosis is done using the following tests:
Colposcopy :
This procedure is done using an instrument called a colposcope which has a bright light and a magnifying lens. The lens magnifies the cells of the cervix and vagina and allows the healthcare provider to examine these regions.Biopsy :
For conducting biopsy, the doctor removes a sample of tissue from the suspected area using a flexible tube put into the cervix. The sample is then sent to a pathologist for examination. Biopsy helps in a definite diagnosis. There are also other types of biopsies like:Loop electrosurgical excision procedure (LEEP):
During this procedure, an electrical current is passed through a thin wire loop inserted into the cervix. The hook removes tissues from the suspected area and this sample is sent to a laboratory to diagnose cervical cancer. LEEP is also used to remove pre-cancer or early-stage cancer cells.Cone biopsy :
In cone biopsy, a cone-shaped piece of tissue is surgically removed from the cervix to diagnose cervical cancer. It is also called conization. It is also done as a treatment oprtion to remove a precancer or an early-stage cancer tissue.Endocervical curettage :
Endocervical curettage is employed to look into areas inside the cervix that are usually not visible during colposcopy. In this procedure, a curette, a spoon-shaped instrument, is used to scrape tissue samples from inside the cervix.Pelvic examination :
For pelvic examination, the doctor will insert a speculum into the vagina and keep the region open to look inside the vagina to check the cervix. The doctor will look for any unusual changes in the person's uterus, ovaries, vagina, and nearby organs.Pap test :
This test involves a microscopic examination of cells collected from the lining of the cervix to detect any abnormal changes in their growth. The tissue sample is collected by scraping some cells from the inside and outside of the cervix. Transvaginal ultrasound (also called ultra-sonography):
In this method, high-energy sound waves produced from a transducer inserted into the vaginal canal create echoes in the body. The echoes are converted into pictures of the cervix, uterus, ovaries, and fallopian tubes.
Conclusion
Having knowledge about cervical cancer, anyone can make informed decisions about their health checkups and consultation with a doctor. Timely diagnosis and medical care also prevent the invasion of cancerous cells to other areas or organs of the body and the health from getting worse. The treatment for cervical cancer is based on the age and health condition of the patient, the stage of cancer, metastasis, etc. Surgery, radiation chemotherapy, or a combination of these are the usually followed treatment options. Having health insurance will benefit the patients in times like this when several tests and long-term treatments are needed.