Are More Biopsies at Colposcopy Better?

Observational study indicates that obtaining additional lesion-directed biopsies is worthwhile.

Recent updates to cervical cancer screening protocols have not changed U.S. colposcopic practices, which are characterized by wide variability. Investigators funded by the National Cancer Institute studied 690 women (median age, 26) referred for colposcopy based on abnormal cervical cancer screening. As many as four directed biopsies were obtained from distinct acetowhite lesions. High-grade squamous lesions (HSIL, including cervical intraepithelial grade 2/3 or invasive cancer) identified by any biopsy represented the gold standard upon which the sensitivity of biopsies was based.

Median number of biopsies differed for women with no observed colposcopic lesions (one biopsy), acetowhite lesions only (three biopsies), and low or high grade co…

Reviewing Author

Andrew M. Kaunitz, MD

Disclosures

RoyaltiesUpToDate

Grant/Research SupportMerck, Mithra, Medicines360

Editorial BoardsContraception; Menopause; Contraceptive Technology Update; OBG Management; Medscape OB/GYN & Women’s Health

Andrew M. Kaunitz, MD

Disclosures

RoyaltiesUpToDate

Grant/Research SupportMerck, Mithra, Medicines360

Editorial BoardsContraception; Menopause; Contraceptive Technology Update; OBG Management; Medscape OB/GYN & Women’s Health

Are More Biopsies at Colposcopy Better?

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Reviewing Author