When and How Would You Screen This Patient for Cervical Cancer? Grand Rounds Discussion From Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center

Successful screening programs based on cervical cytology have dramatically reduced the incidence of cervical cancer in the United States. Human papillomavirus immunization is poised to reduce it further as an increasing percentage of vaccinated women reach adulthood. A recent guideline from the American Cancer Society advises that cervical cancer screening begin at age 25 and that high-risk human papillomavirus testing is the preferred screening test. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends screening begin at age 21 and that cytology remain incorporated into screening. Here, 2 experts debate how to apply these guidelines to Ms. L, a 22-year-old woman who has never undergone cervical cancer screening.

Automated summary

Successful cervical cytology screening programs and human papillomavirus immunization have reduced the incidence of cervical cancer. Guidelines from the American Cancer Society and the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force differ on the recommended age and methods for cervical cancer screening.