Reporting on histopathology specimens from the cervix and vagina: Consensus statements

May 1, 2013

This document from May 2013 promotes standardized content and terminology for reports about histopathology specimens from the cervix and vagina

Cervical and vaginal histopathology specimens are reported by using many different terms. For example, squamous abnormalities are often referred to as dysplasia, cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) and/or squamous intraepithelial lesions.

The lack of standard terminology in Canada about the specimens increases the chances of the pathologist and the clinician miscommunicating. Terminology is also important when evaluating the performance of cervical screening programs.

This report presents consistent terminology to foster discussion and inform practices. Provinces and territories may wish to change or enhance these recommendations to serve their jurisdiction’s needs.

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