[Study on nuclear DNA content and image cytometry in cervical cancer and precursor lesions].
OBJECTIVE: The aim of this research was to study the biological and clinical features of cervical cancer and precursor lesions. METHODS: Nuclear DNA was analyzed by image cytometry (ICM) in 125 embedded tissue 5 microns sections stained with Feulgen stain. Samples included normal cervical squamous epithelium (n = 11), cervical intraepithelial neoplasia I (CIN I) (n = 22), CINII (n = 17) and CINIII (n = 13), cervical neoplasm (n = 62). RESULTS: The mean DNA content, nuclear area increased progressively from normal cervical epithelium, CINI, CINII, CINIII to invasive squamous carcinoma. Statistical analysis revealed significant difference (P < 0.05, < 0.01). Histograms of cellular DNA ploidy distribution showed different pattern, where 9 components (9C) cells were observed in cervical cancer and CINIII. No differences in DNA mean ploidy (DMP), DNA index (DI) and nuclear area were observed between cervical neoplasm. CONCLUSIONS: It is increased progressively from normal cervical epithelium to cancer, in which CINIII is turning point.