Correlations between unsatisfactory colposcopy, cytology, and biopsy in patients with cervical abnormalities.

BACKGROUND

The main purpose of this study is to review the clinical features of negative loop electrosurgical procedure(LEEP)-cones, in order to lower their rate.

METHODS

Some 162 patients with LEEP-cones were reviewed. Control cytology,satisfactory-unsatisfactory colposcopy, biopsies and endocervical curettage (ECC) were compared to the presence or absence of cone pathology. Statistical analysis, t -tests and Pearson x2 tests were performed, with a significance level of p<0.05.

RESULTS

Negative cones are associated with unsatisfactory colposcopy in 47/60 cases (78.3%) compared to 13/60(21.8%) for satisfactory colposcopy (p=0.011). Unsatisfactory colposcopy is associated with a negative ECC in 53/74(71.6%) cases, compared to 21/74 (28.4%) for satisfactory colposcopy (p=0.024). Finally, negative ECC are associated with negative cones in 32/41 (78%) compared to 9/41 (22%) for positive ECC (p=0.002).

CONCLUSIONS

Low grade cytology, CIN1 biopsies and ECC should be followed for at least 1 year. This results in a lowering of cone negativity from 60/162(37%) to 32/162 (19.8%).