From the Guidelines
A colposcopy is a diagnostic procedure used to closely examine the cervix for abnormal cell growth, and it may cause minor discomfort, bleeding, or infection, but it is a crucial step in detecting and preventing cervical cancer.
Explanation of the Procedure
- The procedure involves the use of a special microscope called a colposcope to magnify the cells of the cervix 1.
- A speculum is used to open the vagina, and acetic acid is applied to the cervix to help highlight any abnormal areas 1.
- The doctor may take a biopsy of any suspicious areas, which can cause some discomfort and bleeding 1.
- The procedure is relatively quick, but it may cause some anxiety for the patient 1.
Importance of the Procedure
- Colposcopy is the primary diagnostic approach for a positive cervical cancer screen 1.
- It helps to identify abnormal cell growth, such as CIN2, which may regress on its own but can also develop into cancer if left untreated 1.
- The procedure has a variable sensitivity, ranging from 60.6% for a single biopsy to 95.6% for three biopsies 1.
What to Expect
- The patient may experience some discomfort during and after the procedure, including bleeding and infection 1.
- The doctor will discuss the results of the colposcopy and any next steps, such as treatment or follow-up appointments 1.
- It is essential to follow up with the doctor after the procedure to discuss the results and any further treatment that may be needed 1.
From the Research
Explanation of Colposcopy Procedure
The colposcopy procedure is a clinical examination used to investigate the health of the cervix and lower genital tract 2. It consists of four sequential steps:
- Visualization
- Assessment
- Sampling
- Documentation and correlation
Purpose of Colposcopy
Colposcopy is used to:
- Examine the epithelium of the uterine cervix and surrounding anogenital area to detect cervical neoplasia and identify abnormal tissue for biopsy 3
- Evaluate women with genital tract abnormalities and abnormal cervical cytology 4
- Diagnose cervical intraepithelial neoplasia and lower genital tract carcinoma 5
Colposcopic Examination
The procedure involves:
- Examining the cervix under illumination and magnification before and after application of dilute acetic acid 4
- Using chemical solutions to assist in discriminating normal tissue and abnormal lesions 3
- Possibly including a biopsy of lesions with characteristics of malignancy and premalignancy 4
Patient Management
The results from the cytologic smear, histologic evaluation, and colposcopic impression collectively determine appropriate patient management 3. A post-colposcopic appointment can aid in discussing treatment options and alleviating fears or unanswered questions 2. Patients are advised to have frequent follow-up exams for Pap smears or repeat colposcopy, regardless of the treatment 2.