Glandular lesions of the cervix: diagnostic and therapeutic dilemmas

The term 'glandular lesions' applies mainly to the spectrum of intraepithelial neoplasia affecting the glandular epithelium of the cervix, but consideration must also be given to non-neoplastic disorders. Various systems of terminology are used, the most satisfactory being low grade and high grade CIGN. The criteria for histological diagnosis are quite well defined, although the distinctions between low grade and high grade lesions and between intraepithelial and early invasive disease can be problematic. Although many cases are initially diagnosed on smears, the cytological diagnosis can also be difficult, particularly when squamous lesions are also present, as happens in about 50% of cases. Both histologically and cytologically, the differential diagnosis between CIGN and non-neoplastic changes must be made. Treatment for high grade lesions has traditionally been hysterectomy, but there is evidence that conization with careful cytological follow-up may be safe in certain circumstances. Women with low grade lesions are generally managed in the same way; the role of cytological surveillance of women with mild glandular abnormalities in their smear is not clear. Although there is evidence to substantiate the belief that CIGN is a precursor of adenocarcinoma of the cervix, very little is known of the natural history of these lesions, their relations to one another and the significance of the low grade abnormalities. This uncertainty hampers a rational approach to management.