What does the different classes of pap test mean?
What do the different classes of Pap test mean? Pap test results are usually assigned numbers from 1 to 5, although some laboratories use slightly different systems. The usual meaning of the tests is as follows: • Class 1: Smear completely normal. No abnormal cells. • Class 2: Some atypical cells present but none suggest cancer. May be due to an inflammation and/or possible infection. Usually no treatment is prescribed because many of the abnormalities return to normal without any treatment. Pap test should be repeated between 3 and 6 months. • Class 3: Some abnormal cells present, suggesting but not confirming the presence ofcancer. Referred to as dysplasia. The degree and kind of abnormality is greater than Class 2 test. Follow up smear and biopsy may be needed. • Class 4: Smear contains some cells that appear to be cancerous. There are signs of early cancer. Follow up smear and biopsy needed. • Class 5: Smear contains cells that are more cancerous than Class...