Objective: This study aimed to present the clinical and colposcopic terminology of the vulva (including the anus) of the International Federation of Cervical Pathology and Colposcopy.
Materials and methods: The terminology has been developed by the International Federation of Cervical Pathology and Colposcopy Nomenclature Committee during 2009-2011.
Results: The terminology is part of a comprehensive terminology of the lower genital tract, allowing for standardization of nomenclature by colposcopists, clinicians, and researchers taking care of women with lesions in these areas. The terminology includes basic definitions and normal findings that are important for the clinician lacking experience with management of vulvar disease. This terminology introduces definitions for abnormal findings recently accepted by the International Society for the Study of Vulvovaginal Disease and includes patterns to identify malignancy.
Conclusions: The terminology differs from past terminologies in that it includes colposcopic patterns and anal colposcopy. Nevertheless, the role of the colposcope in the management of vulvar disease is limited.