Pipelle endometrial sampling. Sensitivity in the detection of endometrial cancer

J Reprod Med. 1995 Aug;40(8):553-5.

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate the sensitivity of the Pipelle endometrial suction curette in the detection of endometrial carcinoma in patients with known endometrial cancer.

Study design: A study was conducted using patients with known endometrial cancer undergoing a hysterectomy as part of a formal staging procedure. Endometrial biopsies were performed prior to each surgical procedure. Biopsy results were compared to the hysterectomy specimen for specimen adequacy and final histologic diagnosis.

Results: The Pipelle biopsy was adequate for analysis in 63 of 65 patients (97%). Malignancy was detected by biopsy in 54 of 65 patients, for a sensitivity of 83 +/- 5% (mean +/- SD). Of the 11 patients with false negative results, 5 had tumors present in only an endometrial polyp. Three of the 11 patients had disease localized to < 5% of the surface area of the endometrium.

Conclusion: The Pipelle endometrial suction curette is an effective office device for evaluating patients at risk of endometrial cancer; however, tumors localized to a polyp or small area of endometrium may go undetected.

MeSH terms

  • Biopsy / methods*
  • Endometrial Neoplasms / pathology*
  • False Negative Reactions
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Sensitivity and Specificity