PAP/HPV Testing - why have it done. Suggestions?

Kaleena
Kaleena Member Posts: 2,088 Member
in Ovarian Cancer #1

I've posted this on the uterine site, but thought I would get your suggestions here.  I was originally diagnosed with Endometrial Adenocarcinoma in 2005 which was found in my uterus, cervix and left ovary.  I was treated as ovarian.

Ok.  why am I asking this?   It is because I am wondering why exactly the gyne/oncologists do these tests.   If they are normal it is ok.  If it is abnormal - it is ok if it is ASCUS.

Here is my situation.   I had a total hysterectomy with removal of uterus, cervix, tubes, ovaries, omentum, appendix.   I get a Pap test at every appointment.   I only had one abnormal result back in 2006 which was right after I had brachytherapy and was told not to worry about that.

Now in May I get a PAP with ASCUS (epithelial cell abnormaility).  At that time the HPV test was negative.   In November, they repeat the PAP again it is ASCUS (epithelial cell abnormality).  However, I just got notice that I am positive for high/intermediate HPV on one or more of the stains.    The doctors do not seem concerned about the ASCUS at all and said its nothing.    With regard to the positive HPV, I am not sure because now I don't see my doctor for another 5 months unless I develop symptoms. (which I had previously complained about - fatigue, joint pain, etc.)    On further investigation on a positive HPV tests, it merely indicates that there may be a 10 to 20 percent of developing cancer - and some of these cancers may not develope for ten years or more?

So my question is then why do we even do these tests.   

Does anyone have any suggestions or thougths on this matter?

Kathy

P.S.  I am between doctors at the moment

Comments

  • Alexandra
    Alexandra Member Posts: 1,308
    #2
    PAP

    Kathy, I don't have much insight into why they still do PAP test after total hysterectomy. I was under the impression that it tests for cervical cancer cells. No cervix - no PAP.

    At my request I had sub-total hysterectomy keeping the cervix, because I didn't like the idea of shortening vaginal cuff. When I asked my ONC whether I would need PAP smear in the future she said no, because ovarian cancer does not spread to the cervix. I don't know if that's the case with uterine cancer. I don't recall ever being tested for HPV, though I had a few blood tests for other STD's.

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