Colposcopy and cytodiagnosis in the prevention of cervical malignancies

Abstract

Background: The aim of this study was to establish the value of cytology, colposcopy, and pathohistology in the prevention of cervical malignancies. Methodology: A prospective study involving 750 patients hospitalized in the Obstetric-Gynecologic department during the period between January 2008 to January 2009 for different reasons in whom cervical dysplasia were noted on speculum examination or who showed typical clinical symptoms, direct biopsy was also obtained from 117 patients. Results: 272 of the 750 patients (36.27%) showed clinical symptoms of cervical pathology. Atypical epithelial changes noted during colposcopy were more frequent in patients 31-40 years of age (60 patients, 32.09%) and 41- 50 years of age (59 patients, 31.55%). Histopathological changes were noticed in 19 cases (16.24%) of cervical dysplasia at different stages, six cases (5.13%) of carcinoma in situ, and three cases (2,56%) of invasive carcinoma. Conclusions: The correct clinical evaluation of cervical epithelial alterations enables a prompt diagnosis and the timely implementation of appropriate therapeutic measures.

Key words: colposcopy, cytodiagnosis, cervix