How to check for cervical cancer

Cervical cancer can be screened through cervical cytology, human papillomavirus testing, colposcopy, cervical biopsy, and imaging examinations. Cervical cancer is usually caused by persistent infection with high-risk HPV. There may be no obvious symptoms in the early stages. Regular gynecological examinations are recommended.

1. Cervical cytology examination

Cervical cytology examination, also known as TCT examination, can detect early precancerous lesions by brushing exfoliated cervical cells for pathological analysis. Sexual intercourse and vaginal douching should be avoided 24 hours before the examination, and it should not be performed during menstrual period. If the results are abnormal, further evaluation needs to be combined with HPV testing or colposcopy. Commonly used auxiliary preparations include cervical cell preservation solution, Pap staining reagent, etc.

2. Human papillomavirus detection

HPV testing detects high-risk HPV infection by collecting cervical secretions. Types 16 and 18 are most closely related to cervical cancer. The test can be combined with TCT, and those who are positive need to decide on subsequent treatment based on the classification. Technologies such as hybridization capture method and PCR amplification method are commonly used in clinical practice. Vaginal drugs are prohibited 48 hours before testing.

3. Colposcopy

Colposcopy can magnify the cervix to observe the morphology of blood vessels and epithelium, and cooperate with the acetic acid test to identify suspicious lesions. The examination may be accompanied by mild discomfort but is non-invasive. If abnormalities are found, localized biopsy is required. Vaginal medication should be stopped 3 days before the examination. There may be a small amount of bleeding after the operation, and sexual intercourse needs to be avoided for 1 week.

4. Cervical biopsy

Cervical biopsy, which takes suspicious tissue for pathological diagnosis under the guidance of a colposcope, is the gold standard for diagnosing cervical cancer. Including spot biopsy, cone biopsy and other methods, pressure is required to stop bleeding and prevent infection after surgery. The pathology report needs to clarify the grade of the lesion. CIN1-3 represents different degrees of precancerous lesions.

5. Imaging examination

Ultrasound, MRI or CT are used to evaluate the extent of tumor invasion and metastasis. MRI is the most sensitive for staging early cervical cancer. PET-CT can detect systemic metastases, and bone scan can detect bone metastases. Metal objects need to be removed before imaging examinations, and radioactive examinations should be used with caution during pregnancy.

It is recommended that women over 21 years old or sexually active should undergo TCT examination every 3 years, and women over 30 years old can be combined with HPV testing. Vaccination with the HPV vaccine can prevent more than 70% of cervical cancer, but regular screening is still required after vaccination. Maintaining a single sexual partner and using condoms can reduce the risk of HPV infection. If symptoms such as contact bleeding and abnormal discharge occur, you should seek medical treatment immediately to avoid delayed diagnosis.