Definitions
of Terms Utilized in the Consensus Guidelines
Colposcopy
is the examination of the cervix, vagina, and, in some
instances the vulva, with the colposcope after the application
of a 3- 5% acetic acid solution coupled with obtaining
colposcopically- directed biopsies of all lesions suspected
of representing neoplasia.
Endocervical
sampling includes obtaining a specimen for either histological
evaluation using an endocervical curette or a cytobrush
or for cytological evaluation using a cytobrush.
Endocervical
assessment is the process of evaluating the endocervical
canal for the presence of neoplasia using either a colposcope
or endocervical sampling.
Diagnostic
excisional procedure is the process of obtaining a specimen
from the transformation zone and endocervical canal for
histological evaluation and includes laser conization,
cold- knife conization, loop electrosurgical excision
(i. e., LEEP), and loop electrosurgical conization.
Satisfactory
colposcopy indicates that the entire squamocolumnar junction
and the margin of any visible lesion can be visualized
with the colposcope.
Endometrial
sampling includes obtaining a specimen for histological
evaluation using an endometrial biopsy or a “dilatation
and curettage” or hysteroscopy.
2002, Copyright American Society
for Colposcopy and Cervical Pathology.
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