Abstract

Background/Aims—The term epithelial changes of uncertain significance (ECUS) describes a minor degree of nuclear pleomorphism limited to the basal layers of cervical epithelium in the absence of severe inflammation with associated normal mitoses, koilocytosis, or koilocytosis associated features. This study aimed to investigate the long term prognosis of this lesion.

Methods—Slides from 128 women with low grade cervical abnormalities, accessioned consecutively, were reviewed.

Results—In 43 women the initial diagnosis of ECUS was confirmed and in 30 women the initial diagnosis of cervical intraepithelial neoplasia grade 1 (CIN1) was confirmed. Comparison of follow up data from these 73 women revealed a similar prognosis in the two groups in terms of regression to normal, persistence of low grade disease, or progression to high grade CIN.

Conclusions—Low grade cervical disease (ECUS and CIN1) should be managed according to similar treatment protocols.