gynecology and obstetrics
Candidal Vaginitis
Introduction
Candidal vaginitis is vaginal infection withCandidaspecies, usuallyC. albicans. Symptoms are usually a thick, white vaginal discharge and vulvovaginal pruritus that is often moderate to severe. Diagnosis is with pelvic examination, vaginal pH, and wet mount. Treatment is with oral or topical antifungal medications. (See also Overview of Vaginitis .) ( Candidiasis (Mucocutaneous) ), which colonizes 15 to 20% of nonpregnant and 20 to 40% of pregnant women. Risk factorsfor candidal vaginitis include the following: Diabetes Mellitus (DM) None Use of a broad-spectrum antibiotic or corticosteroids Pregnancy Constrictive nonporous undergarments Immunocompromise Candidal vaginitis is uncommon among women who are postmenopausal, except among those taking systemic Menopausal Hormone Therapy . 