Cervical Cancer Tests

The cervix, also called the cervix; It is located between the uterus and the vagina. Cervical cancer occurs when cells in the cervix multiply uncontrollably and invade other tissues and organs of the body. When it has an invasive feature, it can affect deeper into the cervix; It can metastasize especially by spreading to the lung, liver, bladder and vagina. In general, cervical cancer progresses slowly. This makes early diagnosis very important for the detection and treatment of cervical cancer.

Cervical Cancer Causes

Cervical cancer usually occurs in underdeveloped and developing countries. It is caused by 95% of sexually transmitted HPV (Human Papilloma Virus). HPV can spread insidiously for months without showing itself; It is a virus that can trigger cancer formation when the treatment process is disrupted. The appearance of the symptoms of the virus several months or years after the infection is called "silent infection". There are also risk factors for cervical cancer such as smoking, weak immune system, obesity, malnutrition, being pregnant before the age of 17.

How Is Cervical Cancer Diagnosed?

Cervical cancer is among the diseases that are most likely to be prevented in women who have regular screening tests. In addition to the correct evaluation of the symptoms seen in the early stages, the diagnosis is made by gynecological examination and Smear Test.

The smear test is a simple and painless cancer screening method that women should have once a year. The discharge taken during the smear test is examined after being poured into a special liquid in a bottle. It is important for all women with an active sexual life to have a smear test once a year for the early diagnosis of cervical cancer.

During the diagnosis of cervical cancer, the colposcopy method, which is based on the magnifying examination of the epithelium lining the cervix with a device resembling a binocular, is also used. If there is a deterioration in the cells, it is easily detected in this way. The use of the colposcopy method together with the smear test helps the diagnosis.

Another method used in the diagnosis of cervical cancer is the HPV DNA test, which is as important as the smear test. HPV DNA test, which can be applied in addition to the smear screening performed during the diagnosis of cervical cancer, or separately, determines whether women have HPV virus.

In cases deemed necessary in the diagnosis and treatment of cervical cancer; rectovaginal examination, BAT scan, MRI scan and PET scan tests are also applied. The application of these tests is evaluated according to the individual situation of the patient.