EARLY DIAGNOSIS AND EVALUATION OF TREATMENT EFFECTIVENESS IN CERVICAL DYSPLASIA

Abstract

Cervical dysplasia, also referred to as cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN), represents a spectrum of premalignant epithelial changes associated with persistent infection by high-risk types of human papillomavirus (HPV), particularly HPV-16 and HPV-18. It is widely recognized as a critical precursor to cervical cancer, which remains one of the leading causes of cancer-related morbidity and mortality among women globally, especially in low- and middle-income countries. The progression from low-grade dysplasia (CIN I) to high-grade lesions (CIN II–III) and eventually invasive carcinoma is a multistep process that may take several years, thereby providing a valuable window for early detection and intervention. Despite the availability of effective screening methods, delayed diagnosis and insufficient coverage of screening programs continue to contribute to high incidence rates. Modern diagnostic approaches, including cytological screening (Pap smear), high-risk HPV DNA testing, and colposcopic evaluation with directed biopsy, have significantly improved early detection rates. The integration of these methods enhances diagnostic accuracy and enables risk stratification, which is essential for selecting optimal treatment strategies.