Cervical cancer cytology and pathology

Abstract

In the first part of the present chapter, we will review each one of the sections that constitute the Bethesda system for the interpretation of cervical/vaginal cytology, including recommendations for a proper cytologic report. Furthermore, the main cytologic criteria used in the diagnosis of squamous and glandular invasive cervical neoplasia precursor lesions are included. In the final part of the cytology section, some advantages and drawbacks of liquid-based cytology are discussed. In the second part of the chapter, the main histopathological aspects of the squamous and glandular cervical neoplasias are discussed. We begin with in situ epidermoid carcinoma, followed by microinvasive epidermoid carcinoma, and then present various histologic subtypes of epidermoid invasive carcinoma. Among glandular neoplasias, in situ adenocarcinoma, early adenocarcinoma, and some subtypes of invasive adenocarcinoma will be reviewed. Adenosquamous carcinoma and neuroendocrine cervix neoplasias are also included in the present chapter.