Gynae:Lower Genital Tract Infections

Question 1

What is the cause of Candidiasis ?

Answer 1

Candida albicans

Question 2

What is the mnemonic for the symptoms of Thrush ?

Answer 2

CVs (3)

Question 3

What is another name for candidiasis?

Answer 3

Thrush

Question 4

What are the symptoms of thrush/candidiasis? (3)

Answer 4

Cottage cheese, non-offensive vaginal discharge; vulval irritation with or without superficial dyspaenuria or dysuria; vulva may be red or inflamed

Question 5

Thrush/candidiasis is usually a clinical diagnosis, but what investigation can be performed which is not usually indicated ?

Answer 5

High vaginal swabs

Question 6

What is the treatment for thrush/candidiasis?

Answer 6

Local clotrimazole pessary or oral fluconazole

Question 7

What thrush treatment is contraindicated in pregnancy, so what is used instead ?

Answer 7

Oral fluconazole so local clotrimazole pessary used instead

Question 8

What are the risk factors for candidiasis ? (4)

Answer 8

Pregnancy, diabetes, abx; immunosuppression: HIV, steroids