Quantitative analysis of the whiteness of the atypical cervical transformation zone

The whiteness of the atypical cervical transformation zone is considered one of the important factors for grading colposcopic findings. The whiteness was measured on photographs taken with a newly developed method that uses double polarizing filters fixed in a rectangular position. This method eliminates highlights and makes it possible to compare the whiteness of different cases according to the same standard. The whiteness after acetic acid application and its diminution rate after four minutes were measured. Significant differences in whiteness were proven to exist between grade 1, 2 and 3 cervical intraepithelial neoplasia, between squamous metaplasia and carcinoma in situ (CIS) and between dysplasia and micro-invasive carcinoma. Significant differences in the diminution rate were revealed between each grade and between squamous metaplasia and CIS.