A 50-year-old woman presents with something coming down per vaginum. On examination, the cervix is elongated and measures 6 cm in length, but the uterine body is in normal position. This finding is best described as:
- A Second-degree uterine prolapse
- B Procidentia
- C Cervical elongation ✓
- D Vault prolapse
Correct answer: C. Cervical elongation
Explanation
Cervical elongation is diagnosed when the cervix is abnormally long (greater than 4 to 5 cm) but the uterine body remains in its normal position. It can mimic uterine prolapse. True uterine prolapse involves descent of the uterine body. Procidentia is complete uterine prolapse with the entire uterus outside the introitus. Vault prolapse occurs after hysterectomy. Recognizing cervical elongation is important as it may be managed with Manchester operation rather than hysterectomy.
Reference: Williams Gynecology, 4th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.