Novel approach reduces risk of cervical cancer

the Oncology Nurse Advisor take:

Researchers describe a novel approach to preventing cervical cancer. The study findings showed a reduction in cervical cancer risk after removal of a discrete population of cervical cells called squamocolumnar junction (SCJ) cells. SCJ cells, which reside in cervical canal, have been implicated as the origins of cervical cancer. In the study, 131 women with cervical intraepithelial neoplasia had the SCJ cells removed from their cervix via a loop electrosurgical excision procedure. Follow-up was for up to 4 years, during which time 16 recurrences were identified. Four recurrences were identified at the follow-up visit and determined to be residual disease. The other 12 manifested after the first postoperative visit, and all were in the ectocervix or in mature metaplastic epithelium; none of the delayed recurrences had SCJ cells. The researchers emphasize that removing SCJ cells does not prevent cervical intraepithelial neoplasias nor does it prevent human papillomavirus (HPV) infection. However, it seems to alter recurrence patterns presumably by removing those cells most vulnerable to development more dangerous precancers.