How should I view the TCT inspection report

The TCT examination report mainly focuses on four parts: specimen satisfaction, pathogenic microorganism infection, degree of inflammation, and abnormal changes in epithelial cells. Doctors will determine the presence of cervical lesions based on cellular morphological characteristics. Common results include no epithelial lesions or malignant lesions, atypical squamous cells, low-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions, high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions, squamous cell carcinoma, etc.

1. Specimen Satisfaction

The first item of the report will indicate whether the specimen is qualified, and it is necessary to confirm whether the number of cervical exfoliated cells is sufficient and whether there is interference from blood or mucus. Unqualified specimens may require resampling due to improper sampling or physiological effects. A qualified specimen should contain a sufficient number of squamous and columnar epithelial cells, which are the basic conditions for accurately evaluating cervical lesions.

2. Pathogenic Microorganisms

This section will indicate the presence of infections such as trichomonas, candida, actinomycetes, or bacterial vaginosis symptoms such as clue cells. Some reports will indicate the status of human papillomavirus infection. These microbial infections may lead to cervical inflammatory reactions, but it needs to be judged comprehensively based on clinical symptoms and other examinations. Simple microbial infections are not directly equivalent to cervical lesions.

3. The degree of inflammation

report will classify and describe the inflammatory response, ranging from mild to severe. Mild inflammation may be caused by physiological changes, while moderate to severe inflammation is often accompanied by a large amount of inflammatory cell infiltration. It is necessary to combine routine vaginal discharge examination to determine the cause. Long term chronic inflammatory stimulation may increase the probability of abnormal cervical epithelial hyperplasia, but most inflammations can be alleviated through anti infective treatment.

4. Changes in epithelial cells

This is the core diagnostic part, and the normal result is the absence of intraepithelial lesions or malignant lesions. Atypical squamous cells need to be distinguished between non significant types and high-grade types. The former may require follow-up examinations, while the latter requires further colposcopy examination. Clear epithelial lesions will be graded and labeled. Low grade lesions may be associated with transient HPV infection, while high-grade lesions require immediate intervention. The diagnosis of squamous cell carcinoma or adenocarcinoma will be directly indicated.

5. Supplementary Suggestions

Some reports will indicate the recommended content in the remarks column, such as re examination after 3-6 months, immediate vaginal colposcopy examination, HPV typing test, etc. These recommendations are based on current cytological findings and must be strictly followed. For postmenopausal women or patients undergoing cervical treatment, the report may specifically indicate the characteristics of cellular morphological changes. After TCT examination, avoid vigorous exercise and sexual activity, and keep the perineum clean. When abnormal results are detected, there is no need to be overly anxious, but timely follow-up visits are required. Women over 30 years old are recommended to undergo combined HPV testing to improve screening accuracy. Daily attention should be paid to enhancing immunity and avoiding high-risk behaviors such as having multiple sexual partners. Any abnormal vaginal bleeding or discharge symptoms should be promptly treated with medical attention, and the condition should not be judged solely based on TCT reports.