Comparison between reference oncologic colpocytology and severity of intraepithelial cervical lesions

OBJECTIVE: The study was designed to compare the Pap smear results, performed on the public health service, with: the results of Pap smear collected on the reference service; the colposcopy and punch biopsy results. METHODS: The total of 213 women assisted at the women's hospital from January 1989 to April 1991, and followed until July 1998 were selected. Ninety were referred because a Pap smears suggestive of Human Papillomavirus (HPV) induced lesion or cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) grade 1, and 123, CIN 2 or 3. RESULTS: Among the 90 women referred because of HPV/CIN 1.49% presented CIN 2 or 3 in the Pap smears performed at this service. At the colposcopy, 16/90 women did not present suspicious lesions, and in 10 women, the squamous columnar junction was not observed. At biopsy, 42 (46%) presented CIN 2 or 3. Out of the 123 women referred with Pap smear of CIN 2 or 3.54% presented CIN 2 or 3 at this service. At the colposcopy, 24 women did not present suspicious lesions and the squamous columnar junction was not observed in 12. About biopsy, 61 (49%) presented CIN 2 or 3. CONCLUSIONS: The expectant conduct in cases of Pap smear with HPV/CIN 1, should follow a criterion, involving qualified professionals to collect the Pap smear, and should provide people awareness as to control follow-up.