Q: General Q&A Answer A1219
asked by:
DoctorAnswer
on July 18th, 2006
A Pap-smear and colposcopy are not as precise of diagnostic tools as a cervical biopsy with a hysto-pathological examination. A Pap-smear is the first diagnostic level where desquamated cells are examined and identified. If the cytological report is OK, or only inflammation is detected then no further diagnostic procedure is requested. If “moderate/severe dysplasia” or “carcinoma in sity” (HSIL) is reported, then the next diagnostic procedure is to undergo a colposcopy with a cervical biopsy. During the colposcopy, the cervix is coated with acetic acid solution and specific features are observed under microscope. After that, the cervix is coated with an iodic tincture. Normal areas are colored brown while those that are abnormal remain uncolored (light). Biopsies are taken from the uncolored areas of the cervix as much as is needed. A histo-pathological examination of the pieces taken from the biopsies gives a 100% secure diagnosis and can be different from that received from the previous diagnostic procedures.
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