Correlation of VIA Positive Cases with Colposcopic and Histopathological Findings in Diagnosis of Precancerous Lesion of Cervix in A Tertiary Care Hospital

Abstract

Background: Cervical cancer prevention strategies are evolving by integrating new screening modalities such as human papillomavirus (HPV) DNA testing and visual inspection with acetic acid (VIA). Colposcopy, as a diagnostic tool, plays a crucial role in the management of abnormal cytology smears, especially in developed countries. However, its utilization and efficacy in resource-limited settings like Bangladesh remain underexplored. Objective: This study aimed to assess the correlation between VIA positivity and colposcopic/histopathological findings in diagnosing precancerous cervical lesions among women in Bangladesh. Method: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 200 women aged 30-60 attending the Gynecology OPD of Dhaka Medical College and Hospital. VIA positivity was determined, and all positive cases underwent colposcopic evaluation. Histopathological examination was performed for tissue samples obtained during colposcopy. Result: Among the participants, 21% were VIA-positive. Colposcopic evaluation revealed inflammation (26.2%), CIN I (38.1%), CIN II (11.1%), CIN III (9.5%), and invasive carcinoma (9.5%). Histopathology findings included inflammation (28.6%), CIN I (40.5%), CIN II (7.1%), and invasive carcinoma (16.7%). True positive and false positive cases were identified, with percentages calculated accordingly. Conclusion: Detailed colposcopic evaluation with guided biopsy is crucial for detecting pre-invasive and early cervical cancer. Integrating colposcopy into screening programs in Bangladesh could significantly reduce morbidity and mortality among young women.