[Cytological and colposcopic diagnosis of decidual ectopy of the cervix (author's transl)].

The cytological and colposcopic fundamentals for correct diagnosis have been compiled in this article on the basis of 86 cases with residual transformation of the cervix. Colposcopically, the decidual transformation of the portio was subdivided into 4 groups, and the colposcopic characteristics of ectopia decidualis were defined. For cytological clarification of decidual transformation of the cervix, two smears are required. The first, taken from the lateral vault of the vagina, enables an insight into the hormonal functioning of the vaginal mucosa. The second smear is prepared by scraping off the transformed tissue. The smear also contains cells from the lower stratum. These are the decidually transformed stroma cells. Evaluation of these preparations and final diagnosis should be effected by an experienced and skilled cytologist. Colposcopic-cytological examination can supply sufficient diagnostic material to eliminate the need for biopsy for the purpose of histological examination. This has been tested in 21 cases of decidual ectopy.