The reasons a test can come back abnormal, showing signs of atypical cells, are varied and, in most cases, not an indication of cancer.

In cervical cancer, the most common abnormality found with Pap tests is called "atypical squamous cells of unknown significance."

Tests can then be performed to look for atypical or abnormal cells.

Some experts question the true significance of atypical cells, and caution that women may be pushed to act on equivocal evidence.

I recently had a Pap test that showed atypical cells.

Microscopically, PIN is a collection of irregular, atypical epithelial cells.

The procedure is used to identify precancerous cells, called atypical cells.

The sample is sent to the laboratory for analysis to determine if the cells are normal or abnormal (atypical cells).

Women with atypical cells have an increased risk of developing breast cancer.