Cervical cancer screening in Porto Alegre, Brazil: alternative methods for detecting cancer precursors in a developing country.

Abstract

OBJECTIVE:

This study was conducted to test the performance characteristics of cervical cancer screening by visual inspection of the cervix with acetic acid and iodine solution.

METHODS:

A total of 100 women were screened for cervical cancer by Pap smear and naked eye inspection of the cervix after application of acetic acid and iodine solution.

RESULTS:

Comparing visual inspection to the Pap test, a sensitivity of 85.7%, specificity of 78.5%, and concordance of 79% (p < .0011) was established. Comparing the Pap test with colposcopy, the corresponding figures were 42.9%, 92.3%, and 66.6% (p < .077), respectively. Visual inspection compared to colposcopy showed corresponding figures of 100%, 7.7%, and 55.5% (p = .48), respectively. Colposcopy and biopsy had an agreement of 100%.

CONCLUSIONS:

Visual inspection with acetic acid and iodine solution proved to be a reasonable method of screening for cervical cancer precursors.

• Authors: P Naud, J Matos, L Hammes, J Prolla, G Schwartsmann, J Vetorazzi, C Quadros, T Gomes, A Lemos, A D Manfrói, C Marc, C Berti, C Born, D Vettori, D Santos, E Dias, G Cislaghi, M Costa, R Santos, R Marroni, V Magno, K Syrjänen
• Journal: Journal of lower genital tract disease (J Low Genit Tract Dis) Vol. 5 Issue 1 Pg. 24-8 (Jan 2001) ISSN: 1089-2591 [Print] United States
• PMID: 17043558 (Publication Type: Journal Article)