Microglandular hyperplasia--a complicating factor in the diagnosis of cervical intraepithelial neoplasia

Cervical microglandular hyperplasia is an unusual lesion that may confused with malignancy, by both macroscopic and colposcopic examinations. Even the cytologic and histologic characteristics may mimic an adenocarcinoma. When, in addition, the simultaneous occurrence of an area of cervical intraepithelial neoplasia is found, it could complicate the correct diagnosis. The clinical implications are discussed on the basis of a single case and the available literature survey. We suggest an in-depth colposcopic and histopathologic examination prior to making a definite diagnosis.