Cervical Cancer Screening and Management
What Is It?
Cervical cancer is caused by persistent high-risk HPV infection. Pap smear and HPV testing detect precancerous changes (CIN) that can be treated before progression to cancer.
How Is It Diagnosed?
Pap smear (cytology) + HPV co-test every 5 years for women 30-65. Pap alone every 3 years for 21-29. Abnormal results managed per ASCCP guidelines: colposcopy, biopsy, or LEEP.
How Is It Treated?
CIN 1: observation. CIN 2-3: LEEP (loop electrosurgical excision procedure) or cold knife cone. Cancer: gynecologic oncology referral.
Tests and Imaging Typically Needed
Pap smear, high-risk HPV genotyping, colposcopy with biopsy for abnormal results.
Approximate Self-Pay Costs
Office visit: $95-$150. Pap + HPV co-test: $80-$150. Colposcopy: $200-$500. HPV vaccine: $250-$300/series (strongly recommended).