Due to the fact that nearly 13,000 American women are diagnosed with cervical cancer every year, the U.S. Congress has designated the month of January as Cervical Health Awareness Month. The hope was that it would raise awareness of the disease as well as the significant role that diagnostic screenings can play in a woman’s cervical health journey. At one time, cervical cancer was one of the leading causes of death among women and is frequently diagnosed among women ages 35 to 44.
Cervical Cancer Deaths are Decreasing
Fortunately, we have witnessed a decrease in cervical cancer related deaths thanks to diagnostic imaging and regular screening tests. Today, human papillomavirus (HPV) tests and Pap smears are commonly performed tests that help in the diagnosis of this dreaded disease. The HPV test looks for the virus which can cause changes in the cells of the cervix. The Pap smear looks for cervical changes could potentially develop into cancer if left untreated. Thus, it is important to get the yearly examinations done.
Diagnostic Imaging and Cervical Health (Cancer)
Cervical cancer typically develops from abnormal cells within the cervix. The majority of cervical cancer cases result from an HPV infection that is typically spread by having unprotected sexual intercourse. Doctors often perform a colposcopy or Pap smear (see above) when diagnosing the condition. A colposcopy is an examination of the cervix through the use of a special microscope that provides them with an enlarged view of the area which enables them to see any abnormal tissue. The earlier the disease is diagnosed, the better are the chances of recovering from it.
If the cervical tissue is abnormal, the doctor will either perform a biopsy to remove a cone-shaped piece of tissue (cone biopsy/LEEP) or imaging tests that include:
- CT scan – reveals detailed, 3D images of the abdomen and cervix. This scan may be performed in order to locate a tumor prior to surgery and can determine its size as well as enlarged lymph nodes or other organs that may be affected.
- MRI – magnetic resonance imaging helps to determine whether cervical cancer involves any tissues adjacent to the cervix as well as the bladder or rectum. This test may be ordered in addition to or instead of a CT scan.
- PET/CT scan – as part of the evaluation process, a physician may order a PET/CT scan. The technique uses advanced nuclear imaging and combines Positron Emission Tomography with Computed Tomography into a single machine. The scan reveals information about the function and structure of body cells and tissues and can detect the spread of cervical cancer to other organs.
Contact Vital Imaging for more information regarding diagnostic imaging services at 305.596.9992.