The transformation zone (TZ) is the area on the ectocervix where metaplasia takes place. The TZ can be identified by the presence of the metaplastic epithelium, nabothian cysts, crypt openings, and islands of columnar epithelium. In fully mature squamous epithelium, none of the features of metaplasia may be visible.
How to identify the extent of the TZ:
- The proximal or inner limit of the TZ is the SCJ (the new SCJ).
- The distal or outer limit of the TZ (the original SCJ) is identified by locating the nabothian cyst or the crypt opening that is farthest away from the SCJ on the ectocervix.
- Once the farthest crypt opening or nabothian cyst is identified, the distal limit of the TZ can be delineated by drawing an imaginary circle with the farthest crypt opening or nabothian cyst on it.
- In mature squamous epithelium, the above-mentioned features may be absent. In such situations, the distal limit of the TZ (the original SCJ) cannot be demarcated.
The TZ is classified as type 1, type 2, or type 3, depending on its extension to the endocervix and the visibility of the SCJ.
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In a type 3 TZ, VIA may miss a CIN or cancer that may be hidden from view. Ablative treatment is not indicated in a type 2 or type 3 TZ.
Squamous metaplastic epithelium appears pale pinkish and is present towards the external os. It is often visible as tongue-shaped projections of pinkish epithelium projecting and coalescing towards the external os. Sometimes the metaplastic epithelium may be faintly acetowhite without any distinct outside border.
Metaplastic epithelium may also appear as a thin transparent acetowhite patch extending outwards from the external os with a diffuse or feathery margin.
Nabothian cysts are a feature of the TZ. A nabothian cyst looks like a raised pearly white or ivory white pimple on the squamous epithelium, and it becomes prominent after application of acetic acid.
Crypt openings (usually visible with magnification) are present only in the TZ. After application of acetic acid, the tiny crypt opening appears as a small black dot surrounded by a thin acetowhite rim. During VIA, crypt openings may look like small white spots on the squamous epithelium.
A skip area or an island of columnar epithelium is visible as a small pocket of red columnar epithelium on the metaplastic squamous epithelium. The process of replacement of columnar epithelium by metaplastic epithelium is not always uniform, and small islands of red columnar epithelium may be left behind on the original ectropion.
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