|
More about Colposcopy:
Definition Purpose Precautions Preparation Aftercare Risks Normal results Abnormal results Resources |
The colposcope helps to identify abnormal areas of the cervix or vagina so that small pieces of tissue (biopsies) can be taken for further analysis.
Colposcopy is used to identify or rule out the existence of any precancerous conditions in the cervical tissue.
If a PAP test shows abnormal cell growth, further testing, such as colposcopy, often is required. A PAP test is a screening test that involves scraping cells from the outside of the cervix. If abnormal cells are found, the physician will attempt to find the area that produced the abnormal cells and remove it for further study (biopsy). Only then can a diagnosis be made.
Colposcopy may also be performed if the cervix looks abnormal during a routine examination. It may also be suggested for women with genital warts and for diethylstilbestrol (DES) daughters (women whose mothers took DES when pregnant with them).
— Carol A. Turkington
