Abnormal colposcopic findings: grade 1 (minor)

Abstract

Colposcopic findings of grade 1, or minor, correspond to subtle epithelial alterations observed during colposcopy, usually associated with low-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions (LSIL) and cervical intraepithelial neoplasia grade 1 (CIN 1), most often resulting from transient human papillomavirus (HPV) infection. These findings are common in young women and carry a low risk of progression to more severe lesions or cervical cancer. According to the International Federation of Cervical Pathology and Colposcopy (IFCPC), these alterations are characterized by thin acetowhite epithelium with indistinct borders, fine mosaic and punctation with a regular vascular pattern, irregular non-elevated margins, absence of major signs such as atypical vessels, preferential location in the transformation zone, and partial iodine uptake on Schiller’s test. Conservative management is recommended, with follow-up using cytology, HPV testing, and then repeat colposcopy, with immediate treatment reserved for persistent lesions or those showing a change in pattern.