INTRODUCTION
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Direct microscopy was developed in 1935 by a Dutch physicist named Fritz Zernike, on the grounds of Ernst Abbe’s studies. Zernike was awarded the Nobel Prize in 1953 for his discovery of the phase contrast phenomenon. Direct microscopy was introduced into gynecological practice only in 1949 by Runge and Voge-Haselman. This optical technique, which produces high-contrast images of unstained biological specimens, such as living cells and microorganisms, is also called phase contrast (Ph) microscopy or wet mount microscopy. Wet mounts cannot be stored over extended time periods, and for this reason are sometimes referred as “temporary mounts”, to distinguish them from the “permanent mounts” which can be stored over longer times. One of the major advantages of direct microscopy is that living cells and microorganisms can be examined in their natural state without previously being killed, fixed, and stained. In our current practice direct microscopy or phase contrast microscopy is usually performed as an extension of the routine gynecological check-up, in order to obtain more reliable information during patient examination. Ideally, Ph microscopy should be used in every patient undergoing gynecological examination; this technically supported work-up may easily give very satisfactory results with a skilful application of such equipment. A rapid diagnosis by freshly mounted preparations was confirmed to be extremely useful in daily office practice, because it enables specific treatment to be prescribed during examination.
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