Association between concurrent genital bleeding and cervical cancer: a cross-sectional study

Area of Science:

• Gynecology
• Oncology
• Cytopathology

Background:

• Genital bleeding is a recognized symptom in women with cervical cancer.
• Understanding the association between genital bleeding and cervical abnormalities is crucial for early detection.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the prevalence of cervical smear abnormalities in women with and without reported genital bleeding.
• To determine the association between genital bleeding and specific cytological findings indicative of cervical cancer.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional study was conducted analyzing 2,324,836 cervical smears.
• Prevalence of cervical smear results was compared between women with and without clinical information on concurrent genital bleeding.

Main Results:

• Genital bleeding was reported in 0.4% of cases.
• Women with genital bleeding, particularly those aged ≥30, showed significantly higher odds of high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (HSIL), squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), atypical glandular cells (AGUS), and adenocarcinoma.
• Sensitivity analysis indicated increased detection rates for HSIL, SCC, AGUS, and adenocarcinoma in women with genital bleeding across different age groups.

Conclusions:

• Genital bleeding is a strong indicator for cervical abnormalities, especially in women aged 30 and older.
• Referral for colposcopy is strongly advised for women aged 30 and above presenting with genital bleeding to facilitate early diagnosis of cervical cancer.