Canadian Health Information Management Association Practice Exam

ASCUS is defined as:

1. anatomical squamous cells of undetermined significance.

2. atypical squamous cells of undetermined severity.

3. atypical squamous cells of undetermined significance.

4. low grade squamous intraepithelial lesion.

The correct answer is: atypical squamous cells of undetermined significance.

ASCUS stands for atypical squamous cells of undetermined significance, which is a term used primarily in the context of cervical cytology (Pap smears). When a Pap test identifies squamous cells that appear abnormal but do not clearly fall into either benign or malignant categories, they are classified as ASCUS. This classification indicates that while the cells are atypical, it is unclear whether they represent a significant pathological condition or are simply a variant of normal tissue. This classification is crucial because it guides further diagnostic procedures. For instance, patients with an ASCUS result may be recommended for additional testing, such as HPV (human papillomavirus) testing, to determine the likelihood of cervical precancerous changes or cancer. Understanding this classification is fundamental for health information management as it directly relates to patient care pathways and the interpretation of cytological findings.