Update on cervical cancer screening

PREVIEW

Growing evidence about the role of human papillomavirus (HPV) infection in the development of cervical cancer holds promise for prevention as well as early detection. At the same time, important advances in diagnostic techniques and management guidelines based on study evidence offer more effective tools for classification of disease severity and appropriate treatment options. In this article, the authors review the 2001 revision of the Bethesda System and the new evidence-based protocols for managing patients with abnormal Pap smears.