Detecting structural changes at the molecular level with Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. A potential tool for prescreening preinvasive lesions of the cervix.

OBJECTIVE

To study cervical exfoliated cells with Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR).

STUDY DESIGN

Consecutive samples from 133 women attending the Dysplasia Clinic, Ottawa Civic Hospital, were collected in balanced electrolyte solution. After centrifugation, two smears were prepared for routine screening. The remainder of the pellet was frozen for FTIR spectroscopic study.

RESULTS

In 120 samples, adequate material was available for spectroscopic study. All smears from 17 women with normal spectra were within normal limits (WNL). One hundred three spectra were abnormal. The corresponding smears were interpreted as: 41 low grade squamous intraepithelial lesions, 20 high grade squamous intraepithelial lesions, 6 atypical squamous cells of undetermined significance, 17 cases with benign cellular changes, and 19 WNL. Ten of 17 cases with benign cellular changes had characteristic spectra consistent with inflammatory changes.

CONCLUSION

FTIR spectroscopy is a highly sensitive technique for detecting cervical abnormalities and a potential tool for prescreening preinvasive lesions of the cervix.