Overview
Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is the most common type of vaginal cancer. It arises from the squamous cells that line the vagina.Diagnosis
HPV testing using self-collected vaginal specimens is acceptable for primary screening of asymptomatic average-risk individuals 1.
Clinician-collected cervical specimens are preferred for HPV testing 1.
Colposcopy with cytology and biopsies is recommended following positive tests for HPV types 16 and 18 1.
Triage testing with clinician-collected cytology or dual stain is recommended following positive tests for HPV 45, 33/58, 31, 52, 35/39/68, or 51, or for pooled HPV other types but negative for HPV 16 or 18 1.
Repeat HPV testing in 1 year is recommended following a positive test for HPV types 56/59/66 and no other carcinogenic types 1.Management
No management details are provided in the abstracts.Special Populations
Minimal data exist on the use of self-collected vaginal specimens for surveillance following abnormal screening test results, colposcopy, or treatment 1.Key Recommendations
Clinician-collected cervical specimens are preferred for HPV testing 1. (Evidence: Expert opinion)
Self-collected vaginal specimens are acceptable for primary HPV screening of asymptomatic average-risk individuals 1. (Evidence: Expert opinion)
Repeat testing in 3 years is recommended following HPV-negative screens using self-collected vaginal specimens 1. (Evidence: Expert opinion)References
1 Wentzensen N, Massad LS, Clarke MA, Garcia F, Smith R, Murphy J et al.. Self-Collected Vaginal Specimens for HPV Testing: Recommendations From the Enduring Consensus Cervical Cancer Screening and Management Guidelines Committee. Journal of lower genital tract disease 2025. link