Abstract
Background: Atypical squamous cells of undetermined significance (ASCUS) is the term in cervical cytology reporting where the changes are suggestive of a sqamous extraepithelial lesion but lack criteria for definition interpretation. Its clinical significance is variable. Methods: A one year study in a zonal hospital evaluating all cervical smears received for cytology by two pathologists independently and subsequently reported as per the Bethesda guidelines. The patients were folloed up for six months. Result: A total of 24 (4%) smears were reported as ASCUS out of 604 examined. Of these, 15 were followed up for one year. Mean age was 39 years and 60% were premenopausal. After six months, 11 cases were reported negative for intraepithelial lesion or malignancy and four showed ASCUS on repeat pap smear. Conclusion: ASCUS shows a repression rate of 73%. Colpscopic evaluation should be done only if ASCUS persists. Diligent follow up and biopsy, when indicated is a must.
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