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[Anaerobic microflora of praepubertal children (author's transl)]

G Gerstner, E Boschitsch, W Grünberger

    Klinische Padiatrie
    |January 1, 1982
    PubMed

    Insights

    Anaerobic bacteria are a significant part of the lower genital tract flora in healthy children and those with vaginal discharge. This study identified common aerobic and anaerobic species in young patients.

    Area of Science:

    • Gynecology
    • Pediatrics
    • Microbiology

    Background:

    • The vaginal and cervical flora in prepubertal children is not well-characterized.
    • Understanding the microbial composition is crucial for diagnosing and treating genitourinary conditions in this age group.

    Purpose of the Study:

    • To investigate the aerobic and anaerobic bacterial flora of the vagina and cervix in healthy prepubertal children and those with vaginal discharge.
    • To identify prevalent bacterial species in the lower genital tract of pediatric patients.

    Main Methods:

    • Bacteriologic cultures were obtained vaginascopically from 38 children (3 months to 16 years).
    • Samples were analyzed for both aerobic and anaerobic bacteria using anaerobic transport media.
    • Species identification was performed for isolated aerobic and anaerobic bacteria.

    Main Results:

    • An average of 5.3 bacterial species (2.9 aerobic, 2.5 anaerobic) were isolated per child.
    • Common anaerobes included Peptococcus, Peptostreptococcus, Bact. melaninogenicus, Proprionibacterium, and Veillonella parvula.
    • Prevalent aerobes identified were Enterococci, E. coli, and Staphylococcus epidermidis.

    Conclusions:

    • Anaerobic bacteria constitute a significant component of the lower genital tract flora in healthy children.
    • This microbial presence is also noted in children experiencing vaginal discharge.
    • The findings highlight the importance of considering anaerobic bacteria in pediatric genitourinary health.

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