Evaluating the cervix.

The colposcope is a stereoscopic microscope mounted on a tripod and is capable of magnifying the cervix ten to 45 times. Differential diagnosis of a diseased cervix is easily obtained through using the colposcope. A diagnosis of epidermization, ectopy, atypical epithelial changes and their extent can be established immediately. Use of colposcopy should diminish the use of tissue biopsy for benign cervical lesions and will modify the treatment of cervical dysplasia and carcinoma in situ by preserving the uterus in many cases.