Cytology in the differential diagnosis of vaginitis.

Vaginal discharge, vulvar pruritus, and dyspareunia are among the most common symptoms that prompt women to seek medical advice. They are frequently assumed to be due to vaginitis resulting from infection and are treated with anti-infective agents without further investigation. Such empirical treatment may be successful, but on the frequent occasions when such treatment is inappropriate, the stage is set for deteriorating genital health. I believe that most cases of "vulvodynia" could be prevented by a correct diagnosis and treatment at the onset of symptoms.