What is Cervical Ulcer?
Cervical erosion also known as cervical ulcer is one of the reasons women seek gynecological advice, of which some are admitted and more are treated as outpatients. Cervical erosion is a very common finding on routine gynecological examination of a woman during her childbearing years.
Erosion is defined as wearing away of tissue. The cervix is lined by two types of cells- outer part by flat squamous cells and the inner part by glandular cells that secrete mucus (columnar). Thus the term cervical erosion is something of a misnomer as the squamous lining of the cervix is not lost but replaced by the columnar epithelium of the inner cervix (endocervix). Therefore the term ectropion is now more prevalent. As the time elapses, squamous metaplasia may occur in this columnar epithelium.
What is it Cause?
Though cervical erosion is a common finding during fertile years, its significance is variable. Causes of erosion can be trauma, chemicals, infections or carcinoma. Trauma of multiple childbirths, tampon use or an intrauterine contraceptive device especially if used for a long period can cause erosion. Cervical erosion is commonly related to the effect of hormones and is seen in young women taking oral contraceptive pills.
Acute and chronic infections are common causes of erosion. The duration of infection is more important than the type. The most serious concern with cervical erosion is its likely predisposition to cause cervical cancer. Cervical erosions are more common in women of lower socioeconomic groups, women with poor general hygiene, with early marriage and multiple pregnancies. These are also the risk groups for cervical dysplasia which are precancerous lesions.
