The day to day description of the successive stage of a disease is called its natural history. It begins with the account of the susceptibility stage and ends with its final resolution. There may be a sub-clinical [signs and symptoms not apparent] at the outset. In the case of infectious diseases this is known as the incubation period. It is defined as the interval between the entry of the pathogenic organism and the appearance of the clinical manifestations- apparent signs and symptoms.
When on get infected with human papillomavirus [HPV] the virus that causes cervical cancer, one get absolutely zero signs and symptoms-subclinical. There are more than 100 known strains of HPV. Types 16 and 18 are considered high risk and are the most common strains. When these high types infect your cervix, they integrate into the cells and cause them to start multiplying abnormally.
Pre-pathogenic phase usually takes 15-20 years for abnormal cells to become cancer. In women with weakened immune systems, such as untreated HIV, subclinical can be shorter 5-10 years. Regular pap smears or HPV DNA testing are vital for early detection of pre-cancerous cells. This helps facilitate timely intervention to prevent unfortunate final resolution to cervical cancer which can result to death or lose of uterus through hysterectomy. Radical hysterectomy includes removing the uterus, cervix, part of the vagina, and surrounding tissues.
However, if victim fails to adhere to preventive measures of screening and prompt treatment. Progression to clinical stage-apparent signs and symptoms-set in. The signs and symptoms manifests :-
-Bleeding after sexual intercourse.
-Foul-smelling vaginal discharge
-Irregular menstrual bleeding that is heavier enduring longer than usual’
-Weight loss, fatigue and loss of appetite.
-Swelling in the legs.