If abnormal cells are found, do they indicate cervical abnormalities?
Abnormal cells may be caused by inflammation or lack of estrogen after menopause. They may, however, indicate abnormalities in the cervix as well. Cervical abnormalities are a spectrum of conditions which range from Low Grade Squamous Intra-epithelial Lesion (LGSIL), High Grade Squamous Intra-epithelial Lesion (HGSIL) to cervical cancer (CA Cervix). If cervical cytology (liquid-based cytology) showed these conditions, colposcopy examination is needed for further investigation.
Range of Cervical Abnormalities
Normal → LGSIL → HGSIL → Cervical Cancer
What is a colposcopic examination?
Colposcopic examination is a simple investigation procedure that is similar to the usual gynaecological examination. A vaginal speculum is inserted into the vagina to expose the cervix. The doctor will then use a telescope-like instrument to examine the cervix at a distance of about 12 inches. Some diluted vinegar will be applied and the cervix will be re-examined. The whole procedure takes about 15 to 20 minutes. During the examination, the doctor may take biopsies from any suspicious areas of abnormalities for histological diagnosis.
Is treatment required if colposcopy showed LGSIL?
LGSIL indicates very early and mild changes in the cervix. At least 50% of these cases will spontaneously regress within a year or two. Therefore most women are put under observation with no immediate treatment. However, treatment may still be given if the lesion is persistent. Only a small proportion of women may have persistent disease that progresses into cervical cancer. As such deterioration can often be detected by regular cervical cytology; with the use of appropriate treatment, chances of the persistent disease developing into cancer can be reduced.
What should be done if colposcopy showed HGSIL?
Treatment is required as the chance of cancerous changes is much higher. LEEP (Loop Electro-excision Procedure), Laser Therapy and Cryotherapy are minor operations used to prevent the progression into cancer. In Hong Kong, LEEP is the most preferred procedure to treat precursors of cervical cancer.
Operations are usually done after menses to ensure that the woman is not pregnant. The whole procedure, which takes about 20 to 30 minutes, is very safe and can be done under local anaesthesia or general anaesthesia, depending on the size and extent of the lesion and characteristics of the patient. Even when the operation is done under local anaesthesia, the patient would not feel much pain.
What follow-ups are required after examinations or treatment of the disease?
More frequent cervical cytology tests are required in the initial period after examinations or treatment. Patients should pay follow-up visits according to their doctor’s recommendations. If thereafter all cervical cytology tests show normal results for a certain number of years, the woman can then get back to routine screening programs.