Colposcopy, an important method in the early diagnosis of cervical cancer, means the observation of the cervix. This observation, performed with an instrument called a colposcope, is a clinical method that evaluates changes in the terminal vascular network, reflecting metabolic and biochemical changes in the tissue. Also described as a microscopic examination, colposcopy allows for the examination of the cervical, vaginal, and vulvar tissues, usually magnified between 4 and 12 times, like a magnifying glass.
Who undergoes colposcopy?
Colposcopy is a procedure performed in cases of abnormal PAP smears (such as those showing suspicious, mild to moderate dysplasia like ASCUS, LGSIL, HGSIL). However, colposcopy may also be performed in women with persistent infections detected in repeated smear tests, or when a gynecological examination reveals abnormalities in the cervix, vagina, or vulva. In general, colposcopy involves:
- Specific abnormalities at the cellular level
- Long-standing atypical inflammatory cells (ASCUS) or high-risk HPV positive ASCUS
- Atypical cells (ASC-H) in which high-grade lesions cannot be ruled out
- Atypical glandular cells (AGC)
- Low-grade squamous cell carcinoma precursor lesion (LSIL)
- High-grade squamous cell carcinoma precursor lesion (HSIL)
- Suspicion of invasive cancer
- It is applied in cases such as the presence of cancer cells.
How is a colposcopy performed?
Colposcopy is a painless procedure where the patient lies on a gynecological examination table, and an instrument called a "speculum" is used to visualize the inside of the vagina. The vagina is then illuminated, and the colposcope is brought closer. Through the device's viewfinder, the cervix is magnified, allowing for a clear examination.
Anesthesia is not required for colposcopy. If deemed necessary, a Pap smear is repeated after visualizing the cervix. If suspicious areas are present, biopsies should be taken during the procedure without fail. The number of biopsies taken may vary depending on the size of the lesion.
The Importance of Colposcopy
Cervical cancer, or cancer of the cervix, is one of the most common female genital cancers today. In women with abnormal Pap smear results, colposcopy allows for a more detailed examination and evaluation of the cervix, and if necessary, a biopsy can be taken to easily make a definitive diagnosis. This enables early diagnosis and treatment, thus preventing cervical cancer.
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