Cervical Lesion Differential Diagnosis
The following differential diagnosis is organized into categories to help guide the thought process:
- Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Cervical squamous cell carcinoma: This is a common type of cancer affecting the cervix, often related to human papillomavirus (HPV) infection. It's a leading consideration due to its prevalence and the fact that cervical lesions are a hallmark of this disease.
- Other Likely Diagnoses
- Cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN): This refers to the potentially premalignant transformation and abnormal growth (dysplasia) of squamous cells on the surface of the cervix. CIN is a common finding and can progress to invasive cancer if not treated.
- Cervical polyp: These are growths on the cervical canal's surface, often benign but can cause abnormal bleeding. They are relatively common and can be mistaken for more serious lesions.
- Nabothian cyst: A benign cystic lesion that forms when the mucus-producing glands of the cervix become clogged. These are very common and usually harmless.
- Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Adenocarcinoma of the cervix: Although less common than squamous cell carcinoma, adenocarcinoma is a type of cervical cancer that originates in the glandular cells. It's crucial to consider due to its potential for aggressive behavior and poor prognosis if missed.
- Metastatic disease to the cervix: Rarely, cancers from other parts of the body can metastasize to the cervix. Missing this diagnosis could lead to inappropriate treatment and poor outcomes.
- Rare Diagnoses
- Cervical sarcoma: A rare type of cancer that begins in the connective tissue of the cervix. Due to its rarity, it might not be the first consideration, but it's important to keep in mind for unusual presentations.
- Melanoma of the cervix: A very rare type of cancer that starts in the pigment-producing cells of the cervix. Its rarity makes it an unlikely diagnosis, but one that should not be overlooked due to its aggressive nature.
- Cervical lymphoma: Lymphoma involving the cervix is extremely rare and usually part of a more systemic disease. It's an important consideration in the differential to ensure appropriate staging and treatment.