Diagnosis of Cervical Cancer

Procedures for diagnosis of Cervical Cancer are grouped as follows:

1.To Determine the Presence of Cancer

Modified Pap Test

In this modification of the conventional Pap test, fluid medium is used to collect and preserve the cervical cells. This is highly sensitive and specific test which can diagnose up to 95% of pre cancerous conditions and cervical cancers.

Speculoscopy

Cervix is examined using a special light source and magnifier lens. The physician can see the abnormalities not visible to eye.

Schiller Test

A special solution is applied to the cervix and then it is coated with iodine. Cervix is examined by magnifying lens through an instrument called colposcope. Abnormal cells appear yellowish white whereas normal cells appear brown. A biopsy is taken from suspicious looking area and sent for histopathological examination.

Dilatation and Curettage

This procedure removes cells from endocervix i.e. the part of cervix opening into the uterus. This part is not visible during routine colposcopy. It is performed under anesthesia. Using an instrument called curette scrapings are obtained from the inside of the cervix and sent for cytological diagnosis.

2. To Determine Spread of Cancer

Cystoscopy

A thin tube like instrument is introduced into the urethra to observe the spread to bladder if any. Biopsy may be taken from the suspected area if needed.

Proctoscopy

A hollow lighted instrument is inserted into rectum to determine the spread of cancer to adjacent structures and pelvic wall. Again biopsy may be taken if needed.

CT Scan

Computed Tomography is excellent to determine the spread of cancerous tissue to the other soft tissues. It shows the spread of cancer to pelvic floor, pelvic walls, bladder, rectum, intestines and lymph nodes. Contrast enhancement is done by injecting a radio-opaque sterile dye intravenously which shows feeding vessels of cancerous growth to be taken care of during surgery.

MRI

Magnetic Resonance Imaging is excellent to see the cancer spread to bony parts. This may be in the form of local spread to pelvic bones or distant metastases to other parts of body.

Check my next article on “Treatment of Cervical Cancer“.

Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for the general public awareness only. The patient is advised to take proper medical opinion before undergoing any treatment mentioned herein. The author and publisher are not responsible for any consequences thereof.