Quantitative microbiology of human vulva

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Dermatology
• Human Microbiome Research

Background:

• The skin's microbial flora varies significantly across different body sites.
• Understanding the vulvar microbiome is crucial for assessing skin health and potential infections.

Purpose of the Study:

• To characterize the microbial flora of the vulva.
• To compare the vulvar microflora with that of the forearm.

Main Methods:

• Utilized the detergent scrub method for microbial sampling.
• Quantified microbial counts per square centimeter.
• Identified dominant bacterial and fungal species.

Main Results:

• Microbial counts were substantially higher on the vulva (2.8 x 10^6/cm²) compared to the forearm (6.4 x 10^2/cm²).
• Dominant vulvar flora included lipophilic diphtheroids, coagulase-negative staphylococci, micrococci, non-lipophilic diphtheroids, and lactobacilli.
• Staphylococcus aureus showed the highest incidence on the vulva (67%).

Conclusions:

• The vulva presents a distinct and more abundant microbial profile than the forearm.
• Specific bacterial groups are characteristic of the vulvar microflora.
• The high prevalence of S. aureus on the vulva warrants further investigation.