Extended colposcopy with samples
After examination in the mirrors, the doctor applies 3% acetic acid to the neck - areas with altered cells turn white (acetowhite epithelium), atypical vessels, mosaics, punctures are visible; then Lugol's solution stains the healthy epithelium brown, while the pathological areas remain light (iodine-negative zone). Based on the picture, the doctor classifies the changes (normal, abnormal picture of grade 1–2, suspicion of invasion) and, if necessary, immediately takes a targeted biopsy. Video recording and photos allow you to compare the dynamics during observation and after treatment. Colposcopy is mandatory for atypia in the Pap test, high-risk HPV, contact bleeding and before treatment of erosion.
Cervical cancer screening
Cervical cancer develops over years from precancerous changes (CIN 1-3 dysplasia) caused by high-risk human papillomavirus and is completely preventable with regular screening. Screening standard: cytology (PAP test) from age 21 every 3 years, HPV test from age 30 every 5 years or co-testing; in case of deviations - colposcopy and biopsy. All three methods complement each other: the HPV test shows the cause, cytology shows cell changes, colposcopy shows where exactly on the cervix they are located.
Indications
- preventively for all women from 21 years of age (cytology) and from 30 years of age (HPV);
- erosion (ectopia), leukoplakia, polyp, suspicious changes in the cervix upon examination;
- positive HPV test or atypia in cytology (ASCUS, LSIL, HSIL) - colposcopy;
- contact bleeding after sexual intercourse;
- control after treatment of dysplasia, conization, cauterization;
- pregnancy planning.
