One Hundred Years of Colposcopy: Legacy and Lessons of Hans Hinselmann

<p>The development of colposcopy and the Papanicolaou (Pap) test marked a turning point in the prevention and early detection of one of the most aggressive gynecological cancers—cervical carcinoma. Hans Hinselmann (1884–1959) first used the colposcope in March 1924 and published his research, along with a description of the instrument, in 1925. This year is considered the beginning of the colposcopic era. Using his device, Hinselmann was able to identify early stages of cervical cancer and describe epithelial changes he termed “precancerous lesions.” He emphasized the importance of systematic prevention and advocated for the establishment of centers dedicated to early cervical cancer detection. Although a persistent and methodical researcher, Hinselmann crossed ethical boundaries under the Nazi regime, participating in forced sterilization programs of women from 1935 onward. After World War II, he spent three years in prison (1946–1949), was removed from clinical work, and later incriminated for his involvement. Following his sentence, he was allowed to practice privately until his retirement in 1949. Hinselmann died in 1959 in Goethehaus. In Serbia, the first article on the importance of colposcopy in gynecological diagnostics was published by Berislav Berić in 1954. Štucinova and Mladen Broćić were pioneers in introducing colposcopy in the country. The Section for Colposcopy and Cervical Pathology was established on September 26, 1995, in Brezovica, marking the institutionalization of this field in Serbia. With the adoption of a new Statute on November 12, 2006, the Section evolved into the Serbian Association for Colposcopy and Cervical Pathology.</p>