Reid's Colposcopic Index (RCI)
Colposcopy scoring tool assessing the severity of cervical lesions based on 4 signs seen at colposcopy. Correlates with cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) grade. Score 0–8: low score = CIN 1; high score = CIN 2/3.
Score interpretation
RCI 0–2 — low-grade change; CIN 1 or normal likely
→ Conservative management; repeat smear and HPV test in 12 months; no immediate treatment usually required; colposcopy follow-up per local protocol
RCI 3–5 — intermediate grade; CIN 1 to CIN 2 borderline
→ Colposcopy-directed biopsy; await histology; if CIN 2 confirmed, consider large loop excision of transformation zone (LLETZ); if CIN 1, consider see and treat or observation
RCI 6–8 — high-grade change; CIN 2 or CIN 3 likely
→ Large loop excision of transformation zone (LLETZ) or cold coagulation; histological confirmation; HPV test of cure at 6 months post-treatment; follow-up colposcopy if HPV persistent; refer if suspected invasive cancer (staging, oncology)
Interpretation bands for the Reid's Colposcopy Index. Apply clinical judgement and local guidance.
References
- Reid R, Scalzi P. Genital warts and cervical cancer. VII. An improved colposcopic index for differentiating benign papillomaviral infections from high-grade cervical intraepithelial neoplasia. Am J Obstet Gynecol. 1985;153(6):611–618.
Related
Curated clinical cross-links plus same-class fallbacks.
Decision support only — verify against a current formulary, NICE, or your local guideline before clinical use.