Cervical Intraepithelial Neoplasia

About Cervical Intraepithelial Neoplasia

The cervix is the narrow portion of the uterus that forms the passageway between the uterus and vagina. Hollow organs such as the vagina and lower part of the cervix are lined with a layer of thin cells known as squamous cells or the epithelial lining. Disruptions to cervical squamous cell function, usually following human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, cause abnormal cell growth. Cervical intraepithelial neoplasia emerges at the early stage of this growth and can progress to a type of cervical cancer known as squamous cell carcinoma of the cervix if left untreated.

Regular Pap tests can screen for precancerous conditions of the cervix, including CIN, CINS, and adenocarcinoma in situ (AIS). After additional testing to confirm your diagnosis, your condition can be proactively managed to prevent progression to cervical cancer.

Types of Cervical Intraepithelial Neoplasia

CIN is categorized based on the amount of tissue affected by the condition.

Types of cervical intraepithelial neoplasia include:

• CIN1: Abnormal cells are present in the in the outermost one-third of the cervical lining.
• CIN2: Abnormal cells are present in the outermost two-thirds of the cervical lining.
• CIN3: Abnormal cells are present in more than two-thirds of the cervical lining.
  • Carcinoma in situ: A form of CIN3 in which abnormal cells are present throughout the entire cervical lining but have not invaded deeper tissue or spread to other parts of the body yet.

Symptoms of Cervical Intraepithelial Neoplasia

CIN typically presents without noticeable symptoms and is first identified after an abnormal Pap test.

Symptoms of cervical intraepithelial neoplasia may include:

• Abnormal vaginal bleeding (spotting) after sex

Risk Factors for Cervical Intraepithelial Neoplasia

Certain people are more likely to develop CIN following an HPV infection.

Risk factors for cervical intraepithelial neoplasia may include:

• Age: HPV is more frequently associated with CIN in individuals over the age of 30.
• Personal history: Smoking may increase a person’s risk of developing CIN.

Treating Cervical Intraepithelial Neoplasia at UT Health Austin

In some cases, CIN goes away without any treatment. In other cases, the abnormal tissue associated with CIN may need to be removed via electrosurgery, cryosurgery, or laser surgery. Patients who do not wish to conceive may choose to undergo a hysterectomy, a surgical procedure that involves the removal of the uterus. Your care team will work with you to determine the best course of action.

Care Team Approach

Patients are cared for by a dedicated multidisciplinary care team, meaning you will benefit from the expertise of multiple specialists across a variety of disciplines. Our gynecologic oncologists work alongside a team of women’s health experts, including radiation oncologists, pathologists, radiologists, oncofertility specialists, onco-psychiatrists, genetic counselors, physical therapists, dietitians, social workers, and more, to provide unparalleled care for patients every step of the way.

We collaborate with our colleagues at the Dell Medical School and The University of Texas at Austin to utilize the latest research, diagnostic, and treatment techniques, allowing us to provide you with world-class, personalized cancer treatment. Depending on your specific needs, your treatment may include combinations of surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, and/or immunotherapy or other targeted therapy.

Learn More About Your Care Team