Changes in the cells of the cervix which may lead to cervical cancer.
Dysplasia of the squamous epithelium of the uterine cervix that may extend into deeper layers.
Abnormal cells on or near the cervix; also, one of four classification systems used to categorize abnormal Pap smear results. CIN is a precancerous condition without symptoms that is detected by Pap smear. In CIN, abnormal cells are found in the cell layers of the surface of the cervix. The extent of the abnormal cells is classified according to the CIN system along a continuum. At one end, all cells are normal, while at the other end is invasive cancer. The points in between represent mild, moderate, and severe states of abnormal cell growth, called CIN 1, CIN 2, and CIN 3. In some women, the abnormal cells will develop into cancerous conditions, while in others, they will return to normal. Because there is no way to predict what will happen, it is essential that all cases of CIN be treated or watched closely, with repeated Pap smears and other diagnostic tests.
Dysplasia of the basal layers of the squamous epithelium of the uterine cervix. This may progress to involve deeper layers of the epithelium. Grades 1, 2, and 3 represent increasing progression of the pathological process. Grade 3 (CIN 3) represents carcinoma in situ. CIN 3 is also classed stage 0 of cancer of the cervix.
The term employed to classify various levels of dysplasia occurring within the outer layer, known as the epithelium, of the cervix.
Cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN), also referred to as CIN, pertains to abnormalities in the cells of the cervix, which is the neck of the uterus, that have the potential to develop into cancer. The CIN grading system is utilized to differentiate between various levels of changes observed in the surface cells of the cervix. This term is applied to biopsy samples taken during colposcopy, which involves the examination of the cervix using a viewing instrument, subsequent to an abnormal cervical smear test. Grades CIN 1-3 broadly correspond to mild to severe cervical dysplasia observed in the cells obtained from a smear test.