Health Encyclopedia

Colposcopy - directed biopsy

Definition

A colposcopy-directed biopsy uses a low-powered microscope called a colposcope to help view the surface of the cervix and show abnormalities.

Alternative Names

Biopsy - colposcopy-directed

How the test is performed

You will lie on a table and place your feet in stirrups to position your pelvis for examination. The health care provider will insert an instrument (speculum) into your vagina to open the vaginal canal and examine the cervix.

The cervix is then swabbed with a chemical solution (acetic acid) to remove the mucus that covers the surface, and to highlight abnormal areas. The health care provider will place the colposcope at the opening of the vagina, and examine the area. Photographs may be taken.

If any areas look abnormal, a small sample of the tissue will be removed (biopsy) using small biopsy forceps. Many samples may be taken, depending on the size of the area.

How to prepare for the test

There is no special preparation. You may be more comfortable if you empty your bladder and bowel before the procedure. You should not douche or have sexual intercourse for 24 hours before the exam.

How the test will feel

A colposcopy is painless. Some women feel a slight sting from the vinegar solution. The biopsy may feel like a pinch each time a tissue sample is taken. You may have some cramping after the biopsy.

It is typical for women to hold their breath during pelvic procedures because they expect pain. Concentrating on slow, regular breathing will help you relax and help relieve pain.

Why the test is performed

This procedure is usually done after a positive Pap smear to identify the abnormality.

Normal Values

A smooth, pink surface of the cervix is normal. A biopsy is only done when the health care provider sees or suspects abnormal tissues because of abnormal Pap smear results.

What abnormal results mean

Abnormal results may indicate:

Cancer
Cervical intraepithelial neoplasia
Cervical warts (human papilloma virus)
Precancerous tissue changes

The colposcopy may be used to keep track of precancer and look for abnormalities that come back after treatment.

Abnormal findings during a colposcopy include:

Abnormal patterns in the blood vessels
Whitish patches on the cervix
Areas that are swollen, worn away, or wasted away (atrophic)

Any of these problems may be signs of cancerous changes.

The test also may be done if an abnormal Pap smear shows signs of cervical dysplasia.

What the risks are

After the biopsy, you may have some bleeding for up to a week. To allow the biopsy area to heal, for 2 weeks avoid:

Douching
Sexual intercourse
Using tampons

Call your health care provider:

If bleeding is very heavy or lasts for longer than 2 weeks
You notice any signs of infection (fever, foul odor, or discharge)

Special considerations

If the colposcopy or biopsy does not show why the Pap smear was abnormal, your health care provider may suggest that you have a more extensive biopsy.

References

Katz VL, Lentz GM, Lobo RA, Gershenson DM. Katz: Comprehensive Gynecology. 5th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Mosby; 2007.

Review Date:2/19/2008
Reviewed By:Peter Chen, MD, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

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