endocervical curettage
Also written as: ECC — Endocervical Curettage
Sampling of tissue from the endocervical canal using a curette for histological examination.
Full Definition
Endocervical curettage (ECC) is a diagnostic procedure involving scraping of tissue from the endocervical canal to obtain specimens for histopathological analysis. This procedure is typically performed during colposcopy when abnormal cytology suggests potential lesions extending into the cervical canal that cannot be fully visualized. ECC helps determine whether dysplastic changes extend beyond the transformation zone and influences treatment planning for cervical precancerous conditions.
Usage
Usage note: Specify indication for procedure and adequacy of specimen in documentation.
In Context
- "Endocervical curettage was performed due to unsatisfactory colposcopy findings." — Procedure note
- "The ECC specimen showed no evidence of dysplasia or malignancy." — Pathology report