Interpretation of Pap smear reports can be challenging at times. Unfortunately, the terminology or language of Pap smears is complex, changing, and not uniformly applied.
The following are explanations of different results you might see on a Pap smear, in alphabetical order. While not all-encompassing, it includes the common descriptive terms. I also included some of the older terminology in the event you may encounter them.
Atypical Glandular Cells (AGC) and Adenocarcinoma In Situ (AIS)
Atypical Squamous Cells of Undetermined Significance (ASCUS)
Bacterial Vaginosis (BV) and Gardnerella
Carcinoma in situ, Severe Dysplasia, CIN 3
Cervical Intraepithelial Neoplasia (CIN) and Cervical Dysplasia
Glandular Cells Following Hysterectomy
High Grade Squamous Intraepithelial Lesion (HSIL)
Invasive Squamous Cell Cancer of the Cervix
Mild Dysplasia (CIN I and Low-grade SIL)
Moderate Dysplasia (CIN II, HGSIL)
Negative for Intraepithelial Lesion or Malignancy