Accuracy of visual inspection with acetic acid in cervical ectopy evaluation

Abstract

Background: Cervical erosion is one of the most common pathological conditions encountered in outpatient gynecological clinics in middle-aged women. A simple method for diagnosis and treatment can play a tremendous role to comfort these women.

Methods: The study includes fifty female patients attended the outpatient clinic of obstetrics & gynecology department in Mansoura University hospitals. All patients selected according to inclusion and exclusion criteria. The study was undertaken during the period from June 2014 to December 2014. Tools: Two tools were used for data collection: (1) Interviewing questionnaire schedule divided into three parts which were used to assess general characteristics of women, obstetric and gynecological history and the presence of cervical ectopy symptoms. (2) Local cervical assessment by vinegar acetic acid (VIA) test.

Results: The study results revealed that 30 subjects (60%) were VIA positive and 20 subjects (40%) were VIA negative. VIA sensitivity was 100%, specificity 45%, PPV 71% and NPV 75%. There was a statistically significant relation between duration of marriage, high parity, IUDs use and VIA positivity.

Conclusions: Using VIA test was an accurate and effective method for detection of cervical ectopy. VIA test should be performed in all the women attending outpatient gynecological clinics even in the presence of Pap smear facility to improve detection rate of cervical lesions and provide better patient counseling and treatment.