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Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) |
 Koilocyte |
An abnormality in the appearance of the cells of the skin of the cervix which suggests but does not confirm the presence of human papilloma virus (HPV). This finding is often based on the presence of "koilocytes," having enlarged nuclei, surrounded by a clear "halo" of cytoplasm. Koilocytes often (but not invariably) point to the presence of virus in the cells. Patients demonstrating these changes who previously had normal Paps are ideally evaluated with colposcopy and cervical biopsies to determine the presence or absence of HPV, although such evaluation can usually safely wait for weeks to a few months if necessary because of operational requirements. |