Value of repeat cytology at the time of colposcopy for the evaluation of cervical intraepithelial neoplasia on Papanicolaou smears

Abstract

The significance of repeat cervical cytology was evaluated in patients referred for colposcopy because of previous cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) 1 on cytologic smears. Between Jan 1, 1984, and Dec 31, 1986, 273 such patients were seen. The results of the repeat smears obtained prior to colposcopy were compared with those of colposcopically directed biopsies and of follow-up. The repeat smear was negative in 99 patients; it disclosed squamous atypia in 84, CIN 1 in 64 and CIN 2 or 3 in 26. Thirty-two patients whose repeat smear was negative had biopsy-documented CIN 1-3. Of the 84 patients with squamous atypia, 37 (44%) had biopsy-documented CIN 1-3. Thus, second smears in this group failed to disclose precancerous lesions in at least 69 patients. Of the 90 patients whose repeat smear were interpreted as showing CIN, 64, or 71%, had biopsy-documented CIN 1-3. Patients with a repeat smear showing CIN 1 or greater and normal colposcopy or a negative cervical biopsy must be followed closely: 33% of our study group (6 of 18) were found to have CIN later.