How to read TCT test results

  TCT test is an exfoliative cytology test, which is a preliminary screening for cervical cancer and plays an important role in detecting early cervical cancer, as well as some precancerous lesions, and infections such as mycobacteria and trichomonas.  Usually, there are three types of TCT test results, one is approximately normal, which means normal, no malignant cell reactive changes are found or only inflammatory state. The second type of result is low grade cytology, which contains atypical squamous cell lesions of unknown significance, atypical squamous cells tending to be highly diseased, and low grade squamous epithelial lesions. The third category of results is cytologically high grade disease, containing high grade lesions of squamous epithelium, squamous cell carcinoma or adenocarcinoma.  Most of the TCT findings in the first category do not require treatment, and those with inflammatory status can be treated with medication and regular follow-up. The second category requires treatment under doctor’s guidance, and if it is accompanied by high risk HPV positivity, colposcopy is needed. If the HPV is negative, regular review and follow-up can be done. Category III requires further cervical biopsy to determine the nature of the disease and to provide effective treatment.