Cervical intraepithelial neoplasia

Proper technique and competent cytopathology are important in obtaining and evaluating the Pap smear. Colposcopy and directed biopsies, combined with endocervical curettage, will permit outpatient diagnosis in about 85 percent of patients with cervical intraepithelial neoplasia. Other patients will require knife conization for diagnosis. A wide range of treatment options exists. Selection of therapy is based on both the patient's reproductive plans and the severity of the disease. Regular follow-up with Pap smears is mandatory after any treatment.