Abstract: Rail corrugation is a complex problem that railway enterprises all over the world are eager to solve. In this paper, researches on rail corrugation in recent years are reviewed, and the status quo in this research field is investigated. In the mean time, current perspectives about the classification, causes and prophylactic measures of rail corrugation are summarized with the emphasis of discussion being focused on the formation mechanism and prophylactic measures. It is reckoned that self-excited vibration, reactive vibration and contact fatigue contribute to the formation and grow of rail corrugation.