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Atypia is a clinical term for abnormality in a cell. The term is medical jargon for an atypical cell. It may or may not be a precancerous indication associated with later malignancy, but the level of appropriate concern is highly dependent on the context with which it is diagnosed.

Atypia can be caused by an infection or irritation if diagnosed in a Pap smear, for example. In the uterus it is more likely to be precancerous.

The term atypia is also used dermatologically and can be a precursor to melanoma.

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