What are the other Names for this Condition? (Also known as/Synonyms)

• Cervical Tunnel Clusters
• Endocervical Tunnel Clusters
• Tunnel Clusters of Cervix

What is Tunnel Clusters of Uterine Cervix? (Definition/Background Information)

• Tunnel Clusters of Uterine Cervix is a benign and abnormal collection of endocervical glands on the wall of the cervix. It forms an oval- or sphere- shaped mass
• These clusters are commonly diagnosed incidentally, mostly in middle-aged and older women (who have had multiple pregnancies)
• There are no clearly established risk factors for Tunnel Clusters of Uterine Cervix and the cause of tumor formation is also unknown
• The tumor appears as cystic or non-cystic single/multiple clusters. No significant signs and symptoms or complications are noted; however, some women may present with abnormal discharge of mucus (from the vagina)
• Treatment course includes close observation of the tumor in asymptomatic cases and surgical management, if necessary. In general, the prognosis of Tunnel Clusters of Uterine Cervix is excellent with suitable treatment

Who gets Tunnel Clusters of Uterine Cervix? (Age and Sex Distribution)

• Tunnel Clusters of Uterine Cervix is a common condition that is observed in adult women of any age. It is mostly seen in women having had multiple births (multiparity)
• It is reported that about 1 in 10 women may have this condition
• There is no known ethnic or racial preference

What are the Risk Factors for Tunnel Clusters of Uterine Cervix? (Predisposing Factors)

• No definitive risk factors have been identified for Tunnel Clusters of Uterine Cervix
• Many cases have been associated with multiparity in women (having borne many children)

It is important to note that having a risk factor does not mean that one will get the condition. A risk factor increases ones chances of getting a condition compared to an individual without the risk factors. Some risk factors are more important than others.

Also, not having a risk factor does not mean that an individual will not get the condition. It is always important to discuss the effect of risk factors with your healthcare provider.

What are the Causes of Tunnel Clusters of Uterine Cervix? (Etiology)

• Currently, the exact cause and mechanism of formation of Tunnel Clusters of Uterine Cervix is unknown.
• Since tunnel clusters are mostly observed in women who are multiparous, the condition may be related to changes that normally occur during pregnancy

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Tunnel Clusters of Uterine Cervix?

Generally, no signs and symptoms of Tunnel Clusters of Uterine Cervix are observed and a majority of the tumors are asymptomatic. In some rare cases, the following signs and symptoms may be noted:

• Abnormal vaginal discharge of mucus
• Many clusters (around 40% of the cases) consist of numerous cysts
• Multiple clusters can be observed in a majority of cases (80%)
• The shape of the cluster mass may be oval or spherical
• The clusters may be composed of non-cystic lesions, which may have a dilated appearance (since these are devoid of mucus/fluid)

How is Tunnel Clusters of Uterine Cervix Diagnosed?

Tunnel Clusters of Uterine Cervix are normally an incidental finding, while the individual is being examined for other medical conditions. A diagnosis of the condition may involve the following steps:

• Evaluation of the individual’s medical history and a thorough physical (pelvic) examination
• Transvaginal ultrasound scan
• Colposcopy: The cervix is examined with an instrument, called a colposcope. This helps the physician get a magnified view of the cervix

Cervical biopsy: It is the process of removing tissue for examination. In the case of tunnel clusters, a complete excision and removal of the tumor can help in the process of a biopsy, as well as be a means for treating the condition.

A pathologist looks at the tissue sample under a microscope, to detect any evidence of cancer. Types of cervical biopsies include:

• Colposcopic biopsy: The abnormal areas of the cervix are visualized with a colposcope. After numbing the cervix with a local anesthetic, an instrument, called a biopsy forceps, is used to get a tissue sample. Mild cramps, pain, and some light bleeding, may occur following the procedure
• Endocervical curettage (endocervical scraping): The curette is an instrument that can be used to scrape out tissue. Using a curette, cells are scraped out from the endocervix (the inner part of the cervix, close to the uterus/womb) and examined under a microscope. Mild pain and bleeding maybe present following the procedure.

Many clinical conditions may have similar signs and symptoms. Your healthcare provider may perform additional tests to rule out other clinical conditions to arrive at a definitive diagnosis.

What are the possible Complications of Tunnel Clusters of Uterine Cervix?

Significant complications from Tunnel Clusters of Uterine Cervix are generally not noted, because it is a benign condition. However, the following may be observed in some cases:

• Stress due to a concern for cervical cancer
• Damage to the muscles, vital nerves, and blood vessels, during surgery
• Post-surgical infection at the wound site is a potential complication

Studies indicate that the recurrence risk from Tunnel Clusters of Cervix is generally very low. Also, no malignant transformations have been noted so far.

How is Tunnel Clusters of Uterine Cervix Treated?

Treatment measures for Tunnel Clusters of Uterine Cervix may include the following:

• If there are no symptoms, then the healthcare provider may chose not to treat the condition
• If it forms a mass, then surgical intervention with complete excision is usually considered. Many a times, a biopsy is performed to rule out other tumors of the cervix
• Post-operative care is important: Minimum activity level is to be ensured until the surgical wound heals
• Follow-up care with regular screening and check-ups are important

How can Tunnel Clusters of Uterine Cervix be Prevented?

• Current medical research has not established a way of preventing Tunnel Clusters of Uterine Cervix
• Medical screening at regular intervals with scans and physical examinations are advised

What is the Prognosis of Tunnel Clusters of Uterine Cervix? (Outcomes/Resolutions)

The prognosis of Tunnel Clusters of Uterine Cervix is excellent with surgical intervention and complete removal, since it is a benign tumor.

Additional and Relevant Useful Information for Tunnel Clusters of Uterine Cervix:

Please visit our Women’s Health center for more physician-approved health information:

http://www.dovemed.com/healthy-living/womens-health/