Cervical liquid-based cytology, abbreviated as TCT, is more accurate than colposcopic evaluation if the TCT result is positive, and more credible than colposcopic evaluation if the results are both negative, so the two are not comparable.
The TCT result is a pathologic examination of cervical cells with a special small brush for screening of cervical cancer and precancerous lesions. If the result is positive, a definitive diagnosis can be made, which is more accurate than colposcopic evaluation.
Colposcopic assessment can be based on a combination of lesion borders, color, vascularity and iodine reaction, and if atypical hyperplasia is considered, further biopsies are taken and sent for pathology.
If TCT is negative, there may be a false negative and no diseased tissue was obtained when cervical cells were taken. Colposcopy is more visualized when evaluating a negative.
Therefore, both tests are routine gynecological examinations and are not significantly comparable. Consultation with a medical professional is recommended for specific cases.