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Intermediate Technical IVT

HSIL

Pronunciation: H-S-I-L

Also written as: HSIL — High-grade Squamous Intraepithelial Lesion

Cytological finding indicating significant cervical cellular abnormalities with higher risk of progression to cancer if untreated.

Full Definition

High-grade Squamous Intraepithelial Lesion represents moderate to severe cellular changes in cervical cytology specimens, corresponding histologically to CIN 2 or CIN 3. HSIL findings indicate established HPV-related cellular transformation with significant risk of progression to invasive cancer if left untreated. Immediate colposcopic evaluation and potential treatment are typically recommended regardless of patient age or HPV status.

Usage

Usage note: Pronounced as individual letters (H-S-I-L); spell out on first use in patient-facing documents.

In Context

  • "HSIL results require immediate colposcopy referral regardless of HPV status." — Clinical management guideline
  • "The quality assurance review identified a case where HSIL was initially misclassified as LSIL." — Laboratory quality report

Also known as

high-grade SIL moderate to severe dysplasia

Contrasted with

LSIL normal cytology

Don't confuse with

LSIL ASC-H

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