Definition

A finding of abnormal cells in the tissue that lines the outer part of the cervix. ASC-US is the most common abnormal finding in a Pap test. It may be a sign of infection with certain types of human papillomavirus (HPV) or other types of infection, such as a yeast infection. It may also be a sign of inflammation, low hormone levels (in menopausal women), or a benign (not cancer) growth, such as a cyst or polyp. More testing, such as an HPV test or another Pap test, may be needed. Also called ASCUS and atypical squamous cells of undetermined significance.