ASCUS
Pronunciation: AS-kus
Also written as: ASCUS — atypical squamous cells of undetermined significance
Atypical squamous cells of undetermined significance; a Pap smear result indicating abnormal but unclear cellular changes.
Full Definition
Atypical squamous cells of undetermined significance (ASCUS) is a category in the Bethesda System for reporting cervical cytology results. It represents the most common abnormal Pap smear finding and indicates that squamous cells appear slightly abnormal but the changes are not clearly benign or precancerous. ASCUS findings typically require follow-up testing, either with repeat Pap smears, HPV testing, or colposcopy, depending on the clinical context and patient's age. Most ASCUS cases resolve without intervention.
Usage
Usage note: Pronounced as a word ('AS-kus') rather than spelled out letter by letter. Part of the Bethesda System classification.
In Context
- "The cytology report showed ASCUS with subsequent HPV testing recommended." — Pathology report
- "Management of ASCUS in women over 30 typically includes co-testing with HPV." — Clinical protocol