The VCUAM (Vagina Cervix Uterus Adnex-associated Malformation) classification: a new classification for genital malformations.
OBJECTIVE
With an incidence of up to 5% in the general population, genital malformations are a frequent clinical occurrence. However, using the existing published classifications of malformations, difficulties arise in classifying genital malformations appropriately. The aim of the present study was to produce a simple, systematic, and reproducible classification system.


METHODS
A systematic arrangement of genital and associated malformaltions, using a structure similar to that in the TNM classification of oncological tumors, was developed and validated.


METHODS
Patients with genital malformations in a university hospital.


METHODS
Ninty-nine premenopausal patients with genital malformations.


METHODS
Patients were diagnosed for genital malformation using laparoscopy or magnetic resonance imaging.


METHODS
A new classification (VCUAM) is presented to evaluate patients with different genital malformations.


RESULTS
The external and internal female genital organs were divided into the following subgroups in accordance with the anatomy: vagina (V), cervix (C), uterus (U), and adnexa (A). Associated malformations were assigned to a subgroup (M) relative to each specific organ. The classification was validated in a group of 99 patients with genital malformations.


CONCLUSIONS
The VCUAM classification for the first time makes it possible to reflect even complex malformations in a precise and individual fashion, taking associated malformations into account. The classification makes it easier to provide appropriate clinical care for the affected patients.
Oppelt
Peter
P
Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Hospital, Erlangen, Germany. peter.Oppelt@gyn.imed.uni-erlangen.de
Renner
Stefan P
SP
Brucker
Sara
S
Strissel
Pamela L
PL
Strick
Reiner
R
Oppelt
Patricia G
PG
Doerr
Hellmuth G
HG
Schott
Guenther E
GE
Hucke
Juergen
J
Wallwiener
Diethelm
D
Beckmann
Matthias W
MW
D000015:Abnormalities, Multiple / Q000145:classification* / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000473:pathology; D002584:Cervix Uteri / Q000002:abnormalities; D005187:Fallopian Tubes / Q000002:abnormalities*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D010053:Ovary / Q000002:abnormalities*; D014599:Uterus / Q000002:abnormalities*; D014621:Vagina / Q000002:abnormalities*