Abstract

This paper addresses the role of endocervical curettage (ECC) as an adjunct of colposcopic evaluation of patients with abnormal cervical cytology. In a meta-analysis of literature data the contribution of ECC to the diagnostic accuracy of colposcopic examination and in the predictive value with regard to the final histologic diagnosis is discussed. The clinical impact of the application of ECC appears to be limited. Figures suggest a reduction in underdiagnosis of (micro)carcinoma in patients with satisfactory colposcopy and an increase of predictive value in diagnosis of invasive disease in unsatisfactory colposcopy.