Evolution of diethylstilbestrol-associated genital tract lesions.

The evolution of the colposcopic manifestations of adenosis involving the cervicovaginal hood and vagina was determined by the long-term follow-up of 173 diethylstilbestrol-exposed women. Serial gross observations in conjunction with histopathologic data showed that adenosis is a dynamic lesion that undergoes progressive squamous metaplasia over time. Ultimately, adenosis may disappear completely, to be replaced by normally glycogenated mucosa. A schema for the evolution of adenosis is presented.