Gynecologic Infections Flashcards
What is vaginitis?
Vaginitis is inflammation of the vagina, often accompanied by increased vaginal discharge containing numerous white blood cells.
What is the vaginal microbiome?
The vaginal microbiome consists of secretions primarily from the cervical mucosa, with normal pH between 3.5 and 4.5. Changes occur throughout life stages, such as increased discharge during pregnancy and minimal secretions post-menopause.
What are vaginosis and vulvovaginitis?
Vaginosis: A condition not associated with white blood cells and typically caused by an altered vaginal environment.
Vulvovaginitis: Inflammation of both the vulva and vagina, caused by infection, chemical irritants, allergens, or foreign bodies.
How is bacterial vaginosis (BV) identified?
BV symptoms include a fishy odor, thin discharge, and vaginal irritation. A pH > 4.5 and recurrence within 3–6 months are common. Associated risks include preterm birth, gynecologic postoperative infections, and endometritis.
How is vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) identified and treated?
Symptoms: Pruritus, thick white ‘cottage cheese-like’ discharge.
Risk factors: Antibiotic use, diabetes, pregnancy, obesity, and immunosuppression.
Treatment: Antifungal agents; azole medications for complicated cases.
What is desquamative inflammatory vaginitis?
Rare, noninfectious condition characterized by yellow discharge, irritation, and burning. Managed with clindamycin cream, topical hydrocortisone, or local estrogen therapy.
What is atrophic vaginitis, and how is it managed?
Condition caused by decreased estrogen levels, leading to vaginal dryness, irritation, and dysuria.
Management includes vaginal estrogen, testosterone, or SERMs like ospemifene.
Regular sexual activity can help maintain vaginal health.
What are the key signs of toxic shock syndrome (TSS)?
Symptoms include rapid fever onset, hypotension, and rash, often linked to tampon use, recent surgery, or infections.
Management: Immediate medical evaluation and treatment.
What are Bartholin duct cysts and abscesses?
Cysts result from gland duct obstruction.
Abscesses form when the cyst becomes infected.
Symptoms: Pain, difficulty walking/sitting, and dyspareunia with abscess.
Management: Small cysts may not need treatment; abscesses require drainage or removal.
What are the risks and complications of genital piercings?
Complications include allergic reactions, infections, and potential barrier method failures.
Healing time: 2–6 weeks. Piercing should be avoided if planning pregnancy within a year.
