Evaluation of common organisms causing vaginal discharge

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Gynecology
• Infectious Diseases

Background:

• Vaginal discharge is a common gynecological complaint among women.
• Imbalances in vaginal flora can lead to bacterial vaginosis (BV), vaginal candidiasis (VC), trichomoniasis, and Group B Streptococcus infections.
• Knowledge gaps persist regarding the infectious causes of vaginal discharge, particularly in sexually active women.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the prevalence of bacterial vaginosis (BV), vaginal candidiasis (VC), vaginal trichomoniasis, and Group B Streptococcus in women presenting with vaginal discharge.
• To identify the primary etiological agents responsible for vaginal discharge in the study population.

Main Methods:

• A prospective study included 100 women of reproductive age with vaginal discharge.
• Speculum examinations and aseptic collection of high vaginal swabs (HVS) were performed.
• Microscopic analysis (wet mount, clue cells, pus cells, Trichomonas vaginalis motility), pH, Amine test, and Gram staining were utilized for diagnosis.

Main Results:

• Gardnerella vaginalis, the causative agent of BV, was identified in 28% of cases.
• Group B Streptococcus was detected in 5% of women.
• Trichomonas vaginalis was found in 4% of the participants.

Conclusions:

• Gardnerella vaginalis is the predominant cause of vaginal discharge in healthy, reproductive-aged women in the studied population.
• Bacterial vaginosis represents a significant contributor to vaginal discharge complaints.
• Understanding the etiological spectrum is crucial for effective management of vaginal discharge.