Cervix and its abnormalities Flashcards
What is the Anatomy of the Cervix?
Upper ends of the vaginal canal loosely forms the cervix of the uterus
Produces recesses = vagnial fornixes
What contain Lower portion of the Uterus ?
Ectocervix
* Protrudes with the vagina
* surrounds the external os
What is endocervical canal ?
inner part of the cervix
From external to internal os
What is the function of Cervix ?
- Allows sperm to enter uterine cavity
- Maintains sterility of upper female reproductive tract
Explain the structure of Cervix ?
During puberty and pregnancy, partial eversion of the cervix occurs. The lower pH of the vagina causes the now exposed area of columnar epithelium to undergo metaplasia to squamous epithelium, producing a TRANSFORMATION ZONE at the squamocolumnar junction.
Cells undergoing metaplasia are vulnerable to agents that induce neoplastic change and it is from this area that cervical carcinoma commonly originates
What is cervical ectropion ?
Cervical ectropion (or erosion) is when the columnar epithelium of the endocervix is visible as a red area around the os on the surface of the cervix
What is the cause of cervical ectropion ?
This is due to eversion and is a normal finding in younger women, particularly those who are pregnant or taking the contraceptive pill. Normally asymptomatic, ectropions occasionally cause vaginal discharge or postcoital bleeding.
What is the treatment of cervical ectropion ?
- Treated by freezing (cryotherapy) at colposcopy.
- Exposed columnar epithelium is also prone to infection.
- Over time, vaginal acidity promotes metaplasia to squamous epithelium when the symptoms will disappear
What is the blood supply of venous drainage ?
via a plexus in the broad ligament that drains into the uterine veins
Blood supply of Lymphatic drainage ?
via the iliac, sacral, aortic and inguinal lymph nodes
What is Cervicitis ?
inflammation of the cervix
What is the causes of cervicitis ?
Infections such as Chlamydia Trachomatis and Neisseria Gonorrhoea
What is the sign and symptom of cervicitis ?
- No sign/ symptoms mostly,
- Performing Pelvic exam will indicate the diagnosis
if symptom so present
- large mounts of unusual vaginal discharge
- Frequent, painful urination
- Pain during sex
- Bleeding between menstrual periods
- Vaginal bleeding after sex, not associated with a menstrual period
What is Strawberry Cervix ?
Trichomonas vaginalis infection
How is strawberry cervix found ?
By carrying out a physical examination where the cervix has an erythematous, punctate, and papilliform appearance. It is named because of the superficial similar appearance to a strawberry.
Why do we use of Lugol’s iodine to an inflamed cervix ?
produces the typical “leopard-skin” appearance because of multiple iodine-negative spots. Such changes are more commonly seen in trichomoniasis
