An abnormality in the appearance of the nuclei of the cells of the skin of the cervix.

Most commonly, these changes occur in the presence of HPV (Human Papilloma Virus) but occasionally are associated with more serious problems such a cervical dysplasia or even early malignancy.

Patients demonstrating nuclear atypia who previously had normal Paps are ideally evaluated with colposcopy and cervical biopsies to determine the source of the atypia.