Role of colposcopy

Role of colposcopy

Role of Colposcopy

Colposcopy is a diagnostic medical procedure used to closely examine the cervix, vagina, and vulva for signs of disease. It is often performed when results from a Pap smear test are abnormal. Here are some key roles and purposes of colposcopy:

1. Diagnosis of Cervical Dysplasia: Colposcopy helps in the diagnosis of cervical dysplasia, which are abnormal changes in the cells on the surface of the cervix that could potentially develop into cancer.
2. Detection of Cervical Cancer: It aids in the early detection of cervical cancer by allowing for a detailed examination and biopsy of suspicious areas.
3. Evaluation of Genital Warts: Colposcopy can help in the evaluation and diagnosis of genital warts caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV).
4. Assessment of Abnormal Pap Smear Results: When a Pap smear shows abnormal results, a colposcopy is often recommended to further investigate the abnormalities.
5. Biopsy Guidance: During a colposcopy, the doctor may take a biopsy of any abnormal-looking areas. This tissue sample is then analysed in a lab to provide a definitive diagnosis.
6. Follow-up for Treatment: It is used as a follow-up procedure to monitor patients who have undergone treatment for cervical dysplasia or other abnormalities, ensuring that the treatment was successful and that there are no new abnormal changes.
7. Evaluation of Symptoms: Colposcopy can be used to evaluate unexplained symptoms such as bleeding or discharge.

During a colposcopy, the healthcare provider looks for various signs that might indicate abnormalities or potential issues. Some suspicious findings include:

1. Acetowhite Epithelium: Areas of the cervix turn white after the application of acetic acid (vinegar solution), which can indicate abnormal cell changes or dysplasia.
2. Punctation: This refers to the presence of small, red dots on the cervix, which can be seen when examining the blood vessels. It suggests increased blood supply often associated with abnormal tissues.
3. Mosaic Pattern: A pattern resembling a mosaic, which indicates an irregular arrangement of blood vessels and could suggest high-grade lesions or dysplasia.
4. Atypical Vessels: Abnormal blood vessels that appear irregular in size, shape, or branching patterns. These can be a sign of more severe abnormalities, including invasive cancer.
5. Leukoplakia (Keratosis): Thick, white patches on the cervix that do not change colour with the application of acetic acid. These patches can be associated with high-grade lesions or carcinoma.
6. Erosion: Areas where the normal surface of the cervix appears worn away or eroded, which might indicate underlying pathology.
7. Ulceration: The presence of open sores or ulcers on the cervix, which can be suspicious for invasive cancer or severe dysplasia..
8. Lugol’s Iodine Negative Areas: During a Schiller test, areas that do not stain dark brown with Lugol's iodine solution (due to lack of glycogen) might indicate abnormal cells.

These findings guide the healthcare provider in determining whether biopsies are needed and what areas to target for sampling. The results from the biopsies help in making a definitive diagnosis and planning appropriate  treatment. To sum up colposcopy helps in preventive care by allowing for early detection and treatment of precancerous conditions before they develop into more serious health issues and is an important triage test.