ABSTRACT
Mast cell profile was studied in 50 neoplastic and 50 non-neoplastic conditions of the uterine cervix. The mean number of mast cells decreased to 44.8 in chronic cervicitis with ulceration, whereas the highest number of mast cells was observed in cervical polyp with a mean of 250. The mean number of mast cells was also higher in papillary endocervicitis (102.57) and chronic cervicitis (103.8). Mast cells were found in close proximity to the cervical glands and around blood vessels in non-neoplastic lesions. Mast cell count in carcinoma of cervix ranged from 0 to 210 per 10 HPF with a mean of 48.08. When the invasion by tumour was extensive the total count of mast cells was lower when compared to minimal invasion. The distribution of mast cells was found to be around the tumour deposits. Comparison of mast cell densities in neoplastic and non-neoplastic conditions revealed an increase in chronic inflammatory processes, while in cancers there was diminution in number or total absence of mast cells. There is no conclusive correlation between the age of the patients and the density of mast cells. An inverse relationship existed between the mast cell population and degree of anaplasia as well as of mitotic figures.