Tracie is 39 years old and is in a casual relationship with a man. She had her first sexual ...

Cervical cancer is associated with certain HPV types, many of which are spread by sexual contact. The rate of cervical cancer is higher among women who have had sexual intercourse at an early age, have multiple sexual partners, or are in relationships with promiscuous men.

The Pap test involves the removal of a cell sample from the transitional zone and endocervix. The presence of cellular dysplasia is important as cervical cancer arises from the precursor lesions identified with the Pap smear. The CIN 3 (HSIL) indicates the presence of a high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion and cervical cancer in situ.

The transformation zone is the area residing between the exocervix and endocervix. The exocervix is covered with stratified squamous epithelium and the endocervix by columnar epithelium. Because the transformation zone exists between these two areas, it consists of a functional squamocolumnar cellular region. Cervical cancer arises in the transformation zone because of its vulnerability during metaplasia. Genetic mutations, when the tissue is exposed to carcinogens, are more likely when the transformation zone is undergoing normal growth and cellular change.

The LEEP procedure involves the removal of cervical tissue using a thin, wire loop electrode. The electrical current allows the practitioner to cut the tissue sample and encourage coagulation at the site. The procedure can remove the entire transformational area to ensure the elimination of abnormal cells and for further histological evaluation.