precancerøse

Precancerous, or precanceröse, describes tissue changes that are not cancerous themselves but carry a higher risk of developing into cancer if they are not monitored or treated. These changes are often called dysplasia or intraepithelial neoplasia and can occur in various organs.

Common examples include cervical dysplasia or cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN), actinic keratosis of the skin, Barrett's esophagus in the esophagus, and adenomatous polyps in the colon. In cervical lesions, persistent human papillomavirus (HPV) infection is a major risk factor; actinic keratosis is linked to sun exposure; Barrett’s esophagus arises from chronic gastroesophageal reflux; colon polyps may progress to colorectal cancer over time.

Detection and classification rely on screening and tissue sampling. For the cervix, Pap smears and HPV testing are used, followed by biopsy when abnormalities are found. In the gastrointestinal tract, endoscopy with biopsy helps classify lesions by grade or stage. Pathological examination distinguishes levels of dysplasia (for example CIN 1–3) and other precancerous changes. The terminology and grading can vary by organ system.

Management depends on the specific lesion and its grade. Options may include careful surveillance, removal or destruction of the abnormal tissue (such as excision, ablation, or polypectomy), and lifestyle or medical measures to reduce progression risk. Some low-grade precancerous changes may regress spontaneously, while higher-grade changes carry a greater risk of progression if not treated.

Prognosis is favorable when precancerous conditions are detected early and appropriately managed. Regular screening and follow-up are key components of reducing the likelihood of progression to invasive cancer.