Journal of lower genital tract disease
Audio Summaries

Barriers to Cervical Cancer Screening Follow-up: A Study of an Inpatient Screening Program

Mar 16, 2026

This study investigates the follow-up rates for abnormal Pap test results among inpatients screened through the Johns Hopkins Cervical Cancer Screening Program, revealing that 54.5% of patients with abnormal results did not seek further care. The authors identify homelessness as a significant barrier to follow-up and highlight the positive impact of transportation assistance on care continuity, suggesting targeted interventions to improve screening outcomes.

Physician Perspectives on the Transition to Primary Human Papillomavirus Testing for Cervical Cancer Screening

Mar 16, 2026

The authors aimed to identify the barriers and facilitators that community OB/GYN physicians face when transitioning to primary human papillomavirus (HPV) testing for cervical cancer screening. Through qualitative interviews, they found that concerns about variability in practices, patient preferences, and communication challenges were significant barriers, while awareness of changing guidelines and past adaptations in screening methods served as facilitators. The study highlights the need for targeted strategies to address these concerns and promote the adoption of primary HPV testing.

Integrating Cervical Cancer Screening Into Pre-existing, Low-resource Mexican-US Border Clinics

Mar 16, 2026

The authors aimed to evaluate the feasibility of integrating an HPV-based cervical cancer screening protocol in low-resource clinics along the Mexican-US border. Their findings indicate that the screening can be effectively implemented, with a notable preference for self-collection among patients, although challenges such as follow-up loss and logistical issues remain. The high willingness to recommend the program suggests potential for broader acceptance and impact in similar settings.

Effectiveness of Qingdu Suppository on Persistent HR-HPV and Associated Factors: A Retrospective Study

Mar 4, 2026

This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of Qingdu Suppository (QDS) in promoting the clearance of persistent high-risk human papillomavirus (HR-HPV) infections and to identify factors influencing treatment response. The results indicated that QDS significantly increased HPV clearance rates compared to a non-QDS group (55.2% vs. 3.4%, p<.001), suggesting its potential as an adjunctive therapy, although further research in larger randomized controlled trials is necessary to confirm these findings.

Upadacitinib for the Treatment of Recalcitrant Vulvar Lichen Sclerosus

Mar 2, 2026

The authors investigate the efficacy of oral upadacitinib as a treatment for recalcitrant vulvar lichen sclerosus, a condition with limited treatment options beyond topical steroids. In a retrospective case series involving three patients, all experienced clinical improvement and reduced symptoms with minimal side effects. The study suggests that upadacitinib may be a promising alternative for managing this challenging condition, though further research is necessary to confirm its effectiveness.

The Association Between Vulvodynia and Subsequent Morbidity Across the Life Course

Mar 2, 2026

The authors investigate whether women diagnosed with vulvodynia experience higher rates of non-pain-related disorders compared to women without vulvar pain. Their findings indicate that women with vulvodynia have increased incidences of various new-onset conditions, including infectious diseases, mental health issues, and skin conditions, suggesting a potential link between vulvodynia and a compromised immune system that may predispose these women to additional health problems.

Adherence to 2019 ASCCP Cervical Cancer Screening Guidelines at a Community Health Network

Feb 27, 2026

The authors aimed to evaluate adherence to the 2019 ASCCP cervical cancer screening guidelines within a community health network. Their retrospective cohort study found that 67% of the 348 analyzed pap smears were nonadherent, primarily due to incorrect ordering of HPV cotesting, inappropriate screening intervals, and inadequate management of abnormal results. The findings highlight significant opportunities for improvement in cervical cancer screening practices in the studied population.

Multi-omics Analysis Reveals Distinct Changes in the Cellular Composition of Vulvar Lichen Sclerosus

Feb 19, 2026

This study aimed to investigate the cellular composition and gene/pathway alterations in vulvar lichen sclerosus (VLS) tissue compared to normal skin using single-cell RNA sequencing and lipid metabolomics. The authors found significant increases in T cell abundance and alterations in key metabolic and inflammatory gene expressions in VLS, indicating an ongoing inflammatory process that contributes to skin tissue destruction. These findings highlight the critical role of T cell-mediated immunity in the pathogenesis of VLS.

Accuracy of HPV Testing Using Self-collected Urine Compared With Physician-collected Cervical Specimen for HSIL or Worse

Feb 18, 2026

The authors aimed to evaluate the accuracy of HPV testing using self-collected urine samples compared to physician-collected cervical specimens for detecting high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions (HSIL+) as part of efforts to improve cervical cancer screening. Their meta-analysis of 23 studies found that while self-collected urine had a sensitivity of 84.5%, physician-collected samples were more accurate at 92.1%. The study suggests that first-void urine collected with a standard device may slightly enhance sensitivity, but overall, physician-collected specimens remain superior for HSIL+ detection.

HPV Vaccination at the Time of Abortion Visit: A Quality Improvement Initiative

Feb 17, 2026

The authors aimed to evaluate the feasibility and effectiveness of a workflow designed to increase HPV vaccination counseling and uptake among underserved patients visiting an abortion clinic. Their study found that after implementing the workflow, counseling rates for the HPV vaccine rose significantly from 23.8% to 68.7%, and the percentage of patients receiving at least one vaccine dose increased from 6.8% to 34%. This initiative highlights the potential of abortion care settings to improve HPV vaccination rates, particularly in populations at higher risk for cervical cancer.