What Does Thin Acetowhite Epithelium Indicate?

Vaginoscopy is a crucial gynecological examination that involves procedures such as acetic acid reaction. During this process, acetic acid is applied to the cervical epithelium to observe the subsequent reaction. The appearance of thin acetowhite epithelium generally indicates a low possibility of lesion, while thick acetowhite epithelium may suggest the presence of cervical epithelial lesions. Both scenarios require further diagnosis.

During vaginoscopy, applying acetic acid to the cervical epithelium is a standard procedure. The observation of thin white acetowhite epithelium typically suggests a relatively low likelihood of lesions in that area. Conversely, the presence of thick white acetowhite epithelium with a clear boundary often indicates a higher possibility of cervical epithelial lesions, such as low-grade or high-grade lesions. In such cases, biopsies are taken from the affected areas and sent for pathological examination for final diagnosis. It is recommended that women undergo cervical cancer screening annually, and if any abnormalities or high-risk HPV infections are detected, vaginoscopy should be performed. The results of vaginoscopy will determine whether biopsies are necessary, and the biopsies will undergo pathological examination for clinical diagnosis.

1. Vaginoscopy is a common method for early cervical cancer screening, with an accuracy rate of up to 98%. Experts recommend performing cervical biopsies and cell smears in suspicious areas under vaginal magnifying lens observation for early detection of cervical cancer.

2. Cervical cytology by scraping is an important method for early cervical cancer screening and a crucial tool for preventing cervical cancer. It is essential to ensure correct sampling and careful microscopic examination to minimize false negatives.

3. Multi-point cervical biopsies and endocervical biopsies are also methods for early cervical cancer screening. In the absence of a colposcope, biopsies can be taken at the 3, 6, 9, and 12 o'clock positions of the cervical squamocolumnar junction. If the smear is positive but the cervical biopsy is negative, endocervical biopsy should be performed.

4. Conical excision biopsy of the cervix is the most precise method for early cervical cancer screening in cases where multiple smears are positive but biopsies are negative. The specimen is divided into sections and examined continuously for accurate diagnosis.

5. Iodine staining cervical biopsies involve staining normal cervical and vaginal squamous epithelium with iodine solution, which turns it brown. Since atypical hyperplasia, carcinoma in situ, and invasive carcinoma of the squamous epithelium lack glycogen and do not stain, biopsies are taken from the unstained areas to improve the accuracy of early cervical cancer screening.