Management of Atrophic Pattern Predominantly Basal Cells on Pap Smear

Diagnostic and Follow-Up Recommendations

• The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends using the Bethesda System for reporting cervical/vaginal cytologic diagnoses to ensure standardized terminology and appropriate follow-up 1
• The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention suggests that documentation of Pap smear results, follow-up appointments, and subsequent findings should be clearly recorded in the patient's medical record 1
• The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention emphasizes the importance of patient education about the purpose of Pap smears and the need for follow-up 1
• The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends ensuring that repeat Pap smears after estrogen therapy are interpreted as "satisfactory for evaluation" to avoid false-negative results 1
• The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention also recommends documentation of Pap smear results, follow-up appointments, and subsequent findings, with additional guidance provided 2