The pap smear is a laboratory test that is performed on cervical cells to determine whether cellular changes are present. These changes can indicate a precancerous condition or the presence of cancer in the female reproductive tract. Understanding the reasons for abnormal pap test results can help women to take better control of their health.
Human Papillomavirus
According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, HPV is the major cause of abnormal pap test results. HPV is a virus that is transmitted through sexual contact. In healthy women, the virus is cleared quickly by the immune system. In some women, the virus does not go away as quickly. The presence of the virus can lead to the development of abnormal cell changes known as dysplasia. Mild dysplasia often clears up on its own, but moderate and severe dysplasia are more serious and need to be investigated by a physician.
Herpes
The American Pregnancy Association cites herpes as one of the causes of abnormal pap smears. Herpes is a sexually transmitted disease that is caused by the herpes simplex virus. This disease can cause the formation of blisters on the genitals, which eventually break and leave sores behind. Because this disease can stay in the body for a long period of time, it has the potential to cause abnormal cell changes that will show up in a pap smear test.
Trichomoniasis
According to the Centers for Disease Control, trichomoniasis is the most common curable STD that affects women. This disease is caused by a parasite known as Trichomonas vaginalis, which is passed from one person to another through genital contact. Because trichomoniasis can cause a yellow-green discharge and irritation of the genital area, it can cause abnormal pap test results.
Inflammation
Dr. Ivor Benjamin from the University of Pennsylvania Cancer Center cites inflammation as one of the causes of mildly abnormal pap smear results. Inflammation of the cervix may result from viruses, bacterial infections, yeast infections, pregnancy, hormonal changes, miscarriages, abortions or medications. Dr. Benjamin indicates that inflammation that is treated will be repaired by the body and future pap test results are often normal.
Recent Sexual Activity
Women are advised to refrain from sexual activity for a period of at least 24 hours before having a pap test. If this advice is not followed, blood and tissue can affect the accuracy of pap test results. The National Institutes of Health lists douching, using tampons, and soaking in the bathtub as other causes of abnormal pap test results.
Hyperkeratosis
According to the American Academy of Family Physicians, hyperkeratosis can cause abnormal pap test results. Hyperkeratosis is dried skin cells that appear on the pap smear. This cellular change can be caused by cervical infection or the use of cervical caps or diaphragms. This is not a serious condition and only warrants a repeat pap smear to determine whether the cellular changes are still present.
