What is the columnar epithelium of the cervix?
Columnar epithelium It is composed of a single layer of tall cells with dark-staining nuclei close to the basement membrane (Figure 1.3). Because of its single layer of cells, it is much shorter in height than the stratified squamous epithelium of the cervix.
What does squamous metaplasia on a Pap smear mean?
Squamous Metaplasia. The most common protective mechanism of the endocervical epithelium of the uterine cervix is squamous metaplasia. The term metaplasia implies the transformation of one cell type into another type of cell, the latter being of a lower organizational order.
Where do most cervical cancers arise?
Cervical cancer begins in the cells of the cervix. Cervical cancer is a type of cancer that occurs in the cells of the cervix — the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina. Various strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV), a sexually transmitted infection, play a role in causing most cervical cancer.
What is a common site for squamous metaplasia of the cervix?
Location. Common sites for squamous metaplasia include the bladder and cervix. Smokers often exhibit squamous metaplasia in the linings of their airways. These changes don’t signify a specific disease, but rather usually represent the body’s response to stress or irritation.
What is squamous columnar junction?
The squamo-columnar junction (SCJ) of the cervix refers to a transitional area between squamous epithelium of the vagina and the columnar epithelium of the endocervix. This shifts in location through age from being more external to internal.
Is squamous metaplasia caused by HPV?
Squamous metaplasia is a preferential site for high risk HPV infection and HPV related carcinogenesis and thus is a hot spot for developing squamous intraepithelial lesion (SIL) and squamous cell carcinoma. However, it is a physiologic condition and is not a precursor per se.
What is columnar metaplasia?
A columnar-lined esophagus develops when damaged squamous mucosa in the distal esophagus is replaced by metaplastic columnar mucosa [1]. Usually, gastroesophageal reflux is the factor that injures the squamous mucosa.
Can you get HPV with only 1 partner?
You can get HPV by having vaginal, anal, or oral sex with someone who has the virus. It is most commonly spread during vaginal or anal sex. HPV can be passed even when an infected person has no signs or symptoms. Anyone who is sexually active can get HPV, even if you have had sex with only one person.
Is squamous cell carcinoma of the cervix aggressive?
Small cell cancers are sometimes found alongside other more common types of cervical cancers, such as squamous cell carcinoma and adenocarcinoma. Due to their aggressive nature, they tend to be diagnosed at advanced stages, when they have spread to the lymph nodes or other areas of the body.
Is metaplasia precancerous?
Intestinal metaplasia (IM) is recognized as a precancerous lesion for gastric cancer, increasing the risk by 6-fold. IM is highly prevalent in the general population, being detected in nearly 1 of every 4 patients undergoing upper endoscopy.
What do atypical squamous cells mean on a Pap smear?
Atypical squamous cells can be a sign of: HPV (human papillomavirus) infection Benign (noncancerous) cellular changes Cervical cysts or polyps
What kind of cells are found on a vaginal cuff smear?
The slides of vaginal cuff smears of 290 patients were reviewed. The glandular cells were categorized into three groups: (1) squamous metaplastic-like cells; (2) columnar endocervical-like cells; and (3) small round cuboidal cells. Glandular cells were found in 39 (13%) of the 290 vaginal smears.
Why are the squamous cells of the cervix abnormal?
ASC-US means the squamous cells of the cervix look abnormal. This is likely due to an HPV infection. Usually, the cells return to normal on their own, but your doctor will likely recommend monitoring to be safe.
What does abnormal Pap test mean for cervix?
Here is a breakdown of abnormal Pap test results: Atypical Squamous Cells of Undetermined Significance (ASC-US) The most common of all abnormal Pap test findings. ASC-US means the squamous cells of the cervix look abnormal. This is likely due to an HPV infection.