Vulvovaginal candidiasis and vaginal microflora interaction: Microflora changes and probiotic therapy

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Gynecology
• Immunology

Background:

• The vaginal microbiome plays a crucial role in host health and disease.
• Candida species, including Candida albicans, are normal inhabitants of the vaginal flora but can cause symptomatic vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC).
• Alterations in the vaginal microbiome are linked to various health conditions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the changes in vaginal microflora composition during vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC).
• To evaluate the therapeutic potential of probiotics, specifically lactic acid bacteria, in managing and preventing VVC.
• To provide insights into cost-effective strategies for VVC management.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of 16S ribosomal RNA gene sequences to study vaginal bacterial community composition.
• Review of existing research on the association between vaginal microbiome alterations and VVC.
• Examination of studies on the efficacy of probiotic interventions, particularly Lactobacillus species, for VVC.

Main Results:

• Significant shifts in vaginal microflora composition occur during VVC infection.
• Vaginal colonization with probiotics, especially Lactobacillus, demonstrates potential in reducing VVC risk and treating active infections.
• Lactic acid bacteria show promise as a viable probiotic strategy for VVC.

Conclusions:

• Understanding vaginal microbiome dynamics is key to managing VVC.
• Lactic acid bacteria represent a promising probiotic approach for VVC prevention and treatment.
• Probiotic-based therapies could offer a cost-effective alternative to conventional VVC treatments.