[Cytologic diagnosis of malignant tumors of the cervix]

Cytologic patterns of squamous-cell carcinoma, adenocarcinoma, malignant adenoma, and carcinoid of the cervix uteri are presented. Problems in the differential diagnosis of these conditions are discussed. Special attention is paid to the cytologic criteria for detection of intraepithelial and microinvasive squamous-cell and glandular carcinomas. Cytologic investigation may essentially contribute to timely diagnosis of the condition.