What is the management step for a patient with ASC-H cervical cancer screening result?

A patient with an ASC-H (Atypical Squamous Cells - cannot rule out High-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion) result on cervical cancer screening indicates that there is a possibility of a significant cervical lesion. This finding is concerning enough that further investigation is warranted, and the preferred management step is to perform a colposcopy.

Colposcopy allows for a closer examination of the cervix using magnification, and it enables the clinician to target areas for biopsy if abnormal tissue is identified. This is crucial because it helps clarify whether there is a high-grade lesion or cancer present, which requires different management compared to low-grade abnormalities.

In contrast, other management options such as repeating the Pap test in one year or routine screening are inadequate responses in the context of an ASC-H result because they would delay necessary intervention and risk progression of a potentially serious condition. An endometrial biopsy is not indicated in this scenario, as it is more relevant for evaluating endometrial issues, rather than addressing cervical abnormalities. Therefore, colposcopy is the appropriate step to ensure timely and effective management based on the findings of the cervical screening.