This lesson distinguishes vaginal inflammation from changes in the normal vaginal microbiota and explains how bacterial vaginosis is recognized.
Vaginitis is inflammation of the vagina and may result from infection. Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is an imbalance in the normal vaginal microbiota without necessarily causing inflammation. BV may produce no symptoms, or it may cause a thin, homogeneous white-to-yellow discharge, odor, burning, or itching.
All flashcards
How do vaginitis and bacterial vaginosis differ?
Vaginitis means inflammation of the vagina. Bacterial vaginosis is a change in the normal microbial community and may occur without inflammation.
What are clue cells?
Vaginal epithelial cells with adherent bacteria that give them a granular or stippled appearance.
What does vaginolysin do?
This cytotoxin produced by Gardnerella vaginalis can lyse vaginal epithelial cells and red blood cells.
What causes lymphogranuloma venereum (LGV)?
Certain serovars of Chlamydia trachomatis cause LGV, which involves lymphatic tissue.
What do nontreponemal syphilis tests detect?
They detect antibodies to nonspecific lipid antigens associated with infection.
Quiz questions
How many of the four Amsel findings are needed for a presumptive diagnosis of bacterial vaginosis?Answer: At least three findings.
Which sites may be affected by disseminated gonorrhea?Answer: Joints, the heart, or the meninges.
Which organism causes lymphogranuloma venereum?Answer: Certain serovars of Chlamydia trachomatis.
What is characteristic of latent syphilis?Answer: There are no outward symptoms, but infection remains detectable by blood testing.
Which lesion is classically associated with chancroid?Answer: Painful, soft, open genital ulcers that may bleed or produce fluid.
Based on Microbiology by Nina Parker, Mark Schneegurt, Anh-Hue Thi Tu, Philip Lister, Brian M. Forster (OpenStax), licensed CC BY 4.0. Adapted into a summary, flashcards and quizzes.