|
An abnormality in the appearance of the cells of the skin of the cervix
which suggests but does not confirm the presence of human papilloma virus (HPV).
This finding is often based on the presence of "koilocytes," having enlarged nuclei, surrounded by a clear
"halo" of cytoplasm. Koilocytes often (but not invariably) point to the presence
of virus in the cells.
Patients demonstrating these changes who previously had normal Paps are
ideally evaluated with colposcopy and cervical biopsies to determine the presence or
absence of HPV, although such evaluation can usually safely wait for weeks to a few months
if necessary because of operational requirements.
Read more about Human
Papilloma Virus
Koilocyte
|
