Cervical dysplasia is the abnormal growth of cells on the surface of the cervix. Although this is not cancer, this is considered a pre-cancerous condition. Depending on the extent of changes, the condition is further categorized as:

• CIN I -- mild dysplasia (a few cells are abnormal)
• CIN II -- moderate to marked dysplasia
• CIN III -- severe dysplasia to carcinoma-in-situ (cancer confined to the surface layer of the cervix)

Less than 5% of all Pap smear test results find cervical dysplasia. While the cause is unknown, a number of risk factors have been identified. Most cases occur in women aged 25 to 35.

Other risk factors include:

• Multiple sexual partners
• Starting sexual activity before age 18
• Having children before age 16
• DES exposure
• Having had sexually transmitted diseases, especially HPV (genital warts) or HIV infection

There are usually no symptoms.

A pelvic examination is usually normal.

The following tests may indicate cervical dysplasia:

• Pap smear showing mild, moderate, marked, or severe dysplasia.
• Colposcopy revealing "white epithelium." These are mosaic-like patterns on the surface of the cervix, caused by changes in the surface blood vessels.
• Colposcopy-directed biopsy to confirm dysplasia and the extent of cervical involvement.
• Endocervical curettage to rule out involvement of the cervical canal.
• Cone biopsy may be necessary to rule out invasive cancer.