By Jason Wasserman MD PhD FRCPC
September 9, 2024
Tunnel clusters are groups of glandular structures found in the cervix. These structures are lined by cells that normally produce mucus in the cervix. Tunnel clusters are benign (noncancerous) and typically form as part of a normal healing process in the cervix. They can look like small tunnels or tubes, which is how they get their name. They are not harmful and do not increase the risk of cancer.
What are the symptoms of tunnel clusters?
Tunnel clusters usually do not cause any symptoms and are often found by chance during routine pelvic exams or when a sample of cervical tissue is examined for other reasons. Since they are harmless, they do not typically cause pain or discomfort.
What causes tunnel clusters?
Tunnel clusters are believed to form as a result of natural changes in the cells of the cervix, such as after inflammation or healing from minor trauma. In some cases, these clusters develop after childbirth or other events that involve healing of the cervix. They are considered part of the normal changes that can occur in cervical tissue over time.
How is this diagnosis made?
Tunnel clusters are usually found when a pathologist examines a biopsy or tissue sample from the cervix under a microscope. They may also be seen during a routine pelvic exam or Pap test if a small portion of cervical tissue is removed for testing. The diagnosis is confirmed based on the microscopic appearance of the glandular structures.
What are the microscopic features of tunnel clusters?
When viewed under a microscope, tunnel clusters are seen as groups of closely packed, gland-like structures. These structures are lined with columnar epithelial cells, which are the mucus-producing cells normally found in the cervix. The arrangement of these glands into clusters resembles small tubes or tunnels, giving them their characteristic appearance. Importantly, tunnel clusters do not show any signs of cancerous changes and are considered completely benign.
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