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Mitchell CM. Assessment and Treatment of Vaginitis. Obstet Gynecol 2024:00006250-990000000-01111. [PMID: 38991218 DOI: 10.1097/aog.0000000000005673] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2024] [Accepted: 04/11/2024] [Indexed: 07/13/2024]
Abstract
Vaginitis is the presenting symptom at millions of office visits each year in the United States. Although treatment of sporadic cases is often straightforward, recurrent cases present both diagnostic and treatment challenges. Molecular diagnostic tests are likely superior to in-office microscopy for most clinicians and most cases. In both recurrent bacterial vaginosis and recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis, national treatment guidelines recommend an extended treatment duration with one of the first-line agents. In cases in which such treatment is not successful, vaginal boric acid is likely the cheapest and easiest alternative option. New antifungal medications offer additional but limited treatment options. Probiotics are not recommended for prevention of vulvovaginal candidiasis; however, vaginal products containing Lactobacillus crispatus may have promise for recurrent bacterial vaginosis. Trichomoniasis should be treated with a 1-week course of metronidazole; this is the only sexually transmitted infection for which treatment recommendations vary by sex. In cases in which patients do not respond to initial treatment, the diagnosis should be reconsidered, and other potential causes such as desquamative inflammatory vaginitis, genitourinary syndrome of menopause, or vulvodynia should be considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline M Mitchell
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, Harvard Medical School, and the Vulvovaginal Disorders Program, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
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2
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Fernandes LDS, Ogasawara LS, Medina-Alarcón KP, dos Santos KS, de Matos Silva S, de Assis LR, Regasini LO, de Oliveira AG, Mendes Giannini MJS, Scarpa MV, Fusco Almeida AM. Bioprospecting, Synergistic Antifungal and Toxicological Aspects of the Hydroxychalcones and Their Association with Azole Derivates against Candida spp. for Treating Vulvovaginal Candidiasis. Pharmaceutics 2024; 16:843. [PMID: 39065540 PMCID: PMC11279727 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics16070843] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2024] [Revised: 06/10/2024] [Accepted: 06/17/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) remains a prevalent fungal disease, characterized by challenges, such as increased fungal resistance, side effects of current treatments, and the rising prevalence of non-albicans Candida spp. naturally more resistant. This study aimed to propose a novel therapeutic approach by investigating the antifungal properties and toxicity of 2-hydroxychalcone (2-HC) and 3'-hydroxychalcone (3'-HC), both alone and in combination with fluconazole (FCZ) and clotrimazole (CTZ). A lipid carrier (LC) was also developed to deliver these molecules. The study evaluated in vitro anti-Candida activity against five Candida species and assessed cytotoxicity in the C33-A cell line. The safety and therapeutic efficacy of in vivo were tested using an alternative animal model, Galleria mellonella. The results showed antifungal activity of 2-HC and 3'-HC, ranging from 7.8 to 31.2 as fungistatic and 15.6 to 125.0 mg/L as fungicide effect, with cell viability above 80% from a concentration of 9.3 mg/L (2-HC). Synergistic and partially synergistic interactions of these chalcones with FCZ and CTZ demonstrated significant improvement in antifungal activity, with MIC values ranging from 0.06 to 62.5 mg/L. Some combinations reduced cytotoxicity, achieving 100% cell viability in many interactions. Additionally, two LCs with suitable properties for intravaginal application were developed. These formulations demonstrated promising therapeutic efficacy and low toxicity in Galleria mellonella assays. These results suggest the potential of this approach in developing new therapies for VVC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lígia de Souza Fernandes
- Laboratory of Clinical Mycology, Department of Clinical Analysis, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Road Araraquara Jaú, Km 01, S/N, Araraquara 14800-903, SP, Brazil; (L.d.S.F.); (L.S.O.); (K.P.M.-A.); (K.S.d.S.); (S.d.M.S.); (M.J.S.M.G.)
- Department of Drugs and Medicines, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Road Araraquara Jaú, Km 01, S/N, Araraquara 14800-903, SP, Brazil; (A.G.d.O.); (M.V.S.)
| | - Letícia Sayuri Ogasawara
- Laboratory of Clinical Mycology, Department of Clinical Analysis, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Road Araraquara Jaú, Km 01, S/N, Araraquara 14800-903, SP, Brazil; (L.d.S.F.); (L.S.O.); (K.P.M.-A.); (K.S.d.S.); (S.d.M.S.); (M.J.S.M.G.)
| | - Kaila Petronila Medina-Alarcón
- Laboratory of Clinical Mycology, Department of Clinical Analysis, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Road Araraquara Jaú, Km 01, S/N, Araraquara 14800-903, SP, Brazil; (L.d.S.F.); (L.S.O.); (K.P.M.-A.); (K.S.d.S.); (S.d.M.S.); (M.J.S.M.G.)
| | - Kelvin Sousa dos Santos
- Laboratory of Clinical Mycology, Department of Clinical Analysis, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Road Araraquara Jaú, Km 01, S/N, Araraquara 14800-903, SP, Brazil; (L.d.S.F.); (L.S.O.); (K.P.M.-A.); (K.S.d.S.); (S.d.M.S.); (M.J.S.M.G.)
| | - Samanta de Matos Silva
- Laboratory of Clinical Mycology, Department of Clinical Analysis, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Road Araraquara Jaú, Km 01, S/N, Araraquara 14800-903, SP, Brazil; (L.d.S.F.); (L.S.O.); (K.P.M.-A.); (K.S.d.S.); (S.d.M.S.); (M.J.S.M.G.)
| | - Letícia Ribeiro de Assis
- Department of Chemistry and Environmental Sciences, Institute of Biosciences, Humanities and Exact Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), St. Quirino de Andrade, 215, São José do Rio Preto 01049-010, SP, Brazil; (L.R.d.A.); (L.O.R.)
| | - Luís Octavio Regasini
- Department of Chemistry and Environmental Sciences, Institute of Biosciences, Humanities and Exact Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), St. Quirino de Andrade, 215, São José do Rio Preto 01049-010, SP, Brazil; (L.R.d.A.); (L.O.R.)
| | - Anselmo Gomes de Oliveira
- Department of Drugs and Medicines, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Road Araraquara Jaú, Km 01, S/N, Araraquara 14800-903, SP, Brazil; (A.G.d.O.); (M.V.S.)
| | - Maria José Soares Mendes Giannini
- Laboratory of Clinical Mycology, Department of Clinical Analysis, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Road Araraquara Jaú, Km 01, S/N, Araraquara 14800-903, SP, Brazil; (L.d.S.F.); (L.S.O.); (K.P.M.-A.); (K.S.d.S.); (S.d.M.S.); (M.J.S.M.G.)
| | - Maria Virginia Scarpa
- Department of Drugs and Medicines, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Road Araraquara Jaú, Km 01, S/N, Araraquara 14800-903, SP, Brazil; (A.G.d.O.); (M.V.S.)
| | - Ana Marisa Fusco Almeida
- Laboratory of Clinical Mycology, Department of Clinical Analysis, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Road Araraquara Jaú, Km 01, S/N, Araraquara 14800-903, SP, Brazil; (L.d.S.F.); (L.S.O.); (K.P.M.-A.); (K.S.d.S.); (S.d.M.S.); (M.J.S.M.G.)
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Mulinganya MG, De Keyser K, Mongane IJ, Kampara MF, De Vulder A, Boelens J, Duyvejonck H, Hendwa E, Kujirakwinja BY, Bisimwa BG, Rodriguez A, Vaneechoutte M, Callens S, Cools P. Second trimester vaginal Candida colonization among pregnant women attending antenatal care in Bukavu, Democratic Republic of the Congo: prevalence, clinical correlates, risk factors and pregnancy outcomes. Front Glob Womens Health 2024; 5:1339821. [PMID: 38847001 PMCID: PMC11153668 DOI: 10.3389/fgwh.2024.1339821] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2023] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 06/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Vaginal Candida colonization (CC) can lead to vulvovaginal candidiasis, the second most prevalent vaginal condition worldwide, and has been associated with adverse birth outcomes. However, no data on CC in the Democratic Republic of the Congo are available. We investigated the prevalence, Candida species, clinical correlates, risk factors and pregnancy outcomes in women with CC in the second trimester of pregnancy. Material and methods In Bukavu, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, pregnant women were recruited during antenatal care between 16 and 20 weeks of gestation from January 2017 to October 2017 and followed until delivery. Sociodemographics, sexual behavioral, hygienic and clinical characteristics, microbiological data and pregnancy outcomes were collected. Candida detection and speciation was performed with microscopy (Gram-stained smears and wet-mount) and/or quantitative PCR. Multivariate regression models were used to estimate the different associations with CC. Results The prevalence of CC by wet mount, microscopy of Gram-stain smears and qPCR was 27.9%, 28.1% and 38.2%, respectively. C. albicans was the most prevalent Candida species (91.0%). Previous genital infections, an intermediate vaginal microbiota, bacterial vaginosis, and the use of pit toilets were risk factors for CC. Clinically, CC was associated with itching only. Women with CC had twice the odds for preterm birth, if Candida concentration was high, the odds were four times higher. Conclusions In Bukavu, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, the prevalence of CC was high and associated with microbiological and modifiable risk factors. Screening and treatment for CC during antenatal care should be investigated as a possible strategy to reduce preterm birth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mulumeoderhwa Guy Mulinganya
- Faculty of Medicine, Catholic University of Bukavu, Bukavu, Democratic Republic of the Congo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hôpital Provincial Général de Référence de Bukavu, Bukavu, Democratic Republic of the Congo
- Department of Internal Medicine and Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Karen De Keyser
- Department of Diagnostic Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Irenge Jules Mongane
- Faculty of Medicine, Catholic University of Bukavu, Bukavu, Democratic Republic of the Congo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hôpital Provincial Général de Référence de Bukavu, Bukavu, Democratic Republic of the Congo
| | - Mirindi Freddy Kampara
- Faculty of Medicine, Catholic University of Bukavu, Bukavu, Democratic Republic of the Congo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hôpital Provincial Général de Référence de Bukavu, Bukavu, Democratic Republic of the Congo
| | - Annelies De Vulder
- Department of Diagnostic Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Jerina Boelens
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Hans Duyvejonck
- Department of Diagnostic Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Erick Hendwa
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hôpital Provincial Général de Référence de Bukavu, Bukavu, Democratic Republic of the Congo
| | - Bisimwa Yvette Kujirakwinja
- Faculty of Medicine, Catholic University of Bukavu, Bukavu, Democratic Republic of the Congo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hôpital Provincial Général de Référence de Bukavu, Bukavu, Democratic Republic of the Congo
| | | | - Antonio Rodriguez
- Department of Diagnostic Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Mario Vaneechoutte
- Department of Diagnostic Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Steven Callens
- Department of Internal Medicine and Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Piet Cools
- Department of Diagnostic Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
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Sobel JD. Treatment of vaginitis caused by non-albicans Candida species. Expert Rev Anti Infect Ther 2024; 22:289-296. [PMID: 38720183 DOI: 10.1080/14787210.2024.2347953] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2024] [Accepted: 04/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/23/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION In the face of increased frequency of non-albicans Candida vulvovaginitis (VVC) reported worldwide, there is a paucity of effective oral and topical antifungal drugs available. Drug selection is further handicapped by an absence of data of clinical efficacy of available antifungal drugs for these infections. AREAS COVERED In this review, attention is directed at the cause of drug shortage as well as increased frequency of non-albicans Candida (NAC) vulvovaginitis. There is widespread recognition of reduced in vitro azole drug susceptibility in NAC species. Moreover, antifungal susceptibility tests have not been standardized or validated for NAC isolates, hence clinicians rely on an element of empiricism especially given the absence of randomized controlled comparative studies targeting NAC species. Clinical spectrum of NAC species isolates is highly variable with ongoing difficulty in determining a causal role in symptomatic patients. EXPERT OPINION We have entered the era of demand for Candida species-specific therapy and although consensus treatment guidelines are emerging, new antifungal agents that target these multiple-azole resistant or relatively resistant vaginal NAC species are urgently needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jack D Sobel
- Department of Internal Medicine, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
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Zhang J, Jiang X, Shi G, Zhang H, Hu K, Wu D, Shao J, Liu T, Wang T, Wang C. Effect of the Pulsatilla decoction n-butanol extract on vulvovaginal candidiasis caused by Candida glabrata and on its virulence factors. Fitoterapia 2024; 173:105825. [PMID: 38219843 DOI: 10.1016/j.fitote.2024.105825] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2023] [Revised: 01/11/2024] [Accepted: 01/11/2024] [Indexed: 01/16/2024]
Abstract
Vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) caused by Candida glabrata (C. glabrata) is more persistent and resistant to treatment than when caused by Candida albicans (C. albicans) and has been on the rise in recent years. The n-butanol extract of Pulsatilla Decoction (BEPD) has been shown to be effective in treating VVC caused by C. glabrata, but the underlying mechanism of action remains unclear. In this study, the experimenter conducted in vitro and in vivo experiments to explore the effects of BEPD on the virulence factors of C. glabrata, as well as its efficacy, with a focus on possible immunological mechanism in VVC caused by C. glabrata. The contents of Anemoside B4, Epiberberine, Berberine, Aesculin, Aesculetin, Phellodendrine and Jatrorrhizine in BEPD, detected by high-performance liquid chromatography, were 31,736.64, 13,529.66, 105,143.72, 19,406.20, 4952.67, 10,317.03, 2489.93 μg/g, respectively. In vitro experiments indicated that BEPD moderately inhibited the growth of C. glabrata, its adhesion, and biofilm formation, and affected the expression of efflux transporters in the biofilm state. In vivo experiments demonstrated that BEPD significantly reduced vaginal inflammatory manifestation and the release of proinflammatory cytokines and LDH in mice with VVC caused by C. glabrata. Moreover, it inhibited the Phosphorylation of EGFR, ERK, P38, P65, and C-Fos proteins. The results suggested that although BEPD moderately inhibits the growth and virulence factors of C. glabrata in vitro, it can significantly reduce vaginal inflammation by down-regulating the EGFR/MAPK signaling pathway in mice with VVC infected by C. glabrata.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiaping Zhang
- Department of Pathogenic Biology and Immunology, College of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine (College of Life Science), Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China; Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China; College of Pharmacy, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China
| | - Xiaojuan Jiang
- Department of Pathogenic Biology and Immunology, College of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine (College of Life Science), Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China; Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China
| | - Gaoxiang Shi
- Department of Pathogenic Biology and Immunology, College of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine (College of Life Science), Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China; Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China
| | - Hao Zhang
- Department of Pathogenic Biology and Immunology, College of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine (College of Life Science), Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China; Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China
| | - Kaifan Hu
- Department of Pathogenic Biology and Immunology, College of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine (College of Life Science), Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China; Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China
| | - Daqiang Wu
- Department of Pathogenic Biology and Immunology, College of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine (College of Life Science), Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China; Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China
| | - Jing Shao
- Department of Pathogenic Biology and Immunology, College of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine (College of Life Science), Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China; Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China
| | - Tingting Liu
- Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, The Grade 3 Pharmaceutical Chemistry Laboratory of State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China
| | - Tianming Wang
- Department of Pathogenic Biology and Immunology, College of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine (College of Life Science), Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China; Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China; College of Pharmacy, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China.
| | - Changzhong Wang
- Department of Pathogenic Biology and Immunology, College of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine (College of Life Science), Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China; Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China.
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Li M, Jin X, Jiang Q, Wei H, Deng A, Mao Z, Wang Y, Zeng Z, Wu Y, Liu S, Kim J, Wang X, Liu Y, Liu J, Lv W, Huang L, Liao Q, Huang G, Zhang L. Loop-Mediated Isothermal Amplification (LAMP): Potential Point-of-Care Testing for Vulvovaginal Candidiasis. J Fungi (Basel) 2023; 9:1159. [PMID: 38132760 PMCID: PMC10744362 DOI: 10.3390/jof9121159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2023] [Revised: 11/24/2023] [Accepted: 11/28/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The aim of this study is to establish a loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) method for the rapid detection of vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC). METHODS We developed and validated a loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) method for detecting the most common Candida species associated with VVC, including C. albicans, N. glabratus, C. tropicalis, and C. parapsilosis. We evaluated the specificity, sensitivity, positive predictive value (PPV), negative predictive value (NPV), and Kappa value of the LAMP method to detect different Candida species, using the conventional culture method and internal transcribed spacer (ITS) sequencing as gold standards and smear Gram staining and real-time Rolymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) as controls. RESULTS A total of 202 cases were enrolled, of which 88 were VVC-positive and 114 were negative. Among the 88 positive patients, the fungal culture and ITS sequencing results showed that 67 cases (76.14%) were associated with C. albicans, 13 (14.77%) with N. glabratus, 5 (5.68%) with C. tropicalis, and 3 (3.41%) with other species. Regarding the overall detection rate, the LAMP method presented sensitivity, specificity, PPV, NPV, and Kappa values of 90.91%, 100%, 100%, 93.4%, and 0.919, respectively. Moreover, the LAMP had a specificity of 100% for C. albicans, N. glabratus, and C. tropicalis, with a sensitivity of 94.03%, 100%, and 80%, respectively. Moreover, the microscopy evaluation had the highest sensitivity, while the real-time PCR was less specific for C. albicans than LAMP. In addition, CHROMagar Candida was inferior to LAMP in detecting non-albicans Candida (NAC) species. CONCLUSIONS Based on the cost-effective, rapid, and inexpensive characteristics of LAMP, coupled with the high sensitivity and specificity of our VVC-associated Candida detection method, we provided a possibility for the point-of-care testing (POCT) of VVC, especially in developing countries and some laboratories with limited resources.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meng Li
- School of Clinical Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China; (M.L.)
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Beijing Tsinghua Changgung Hospital, School of Clinical Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing 102218, China
| | - Xiangyu Jin
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, School of Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China; (X.J.)
| | - Qingyun Jiang
- School of Clinical Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China; (M.L.)
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Beijing Tsinghua Changgung Hospital, School of Clinical Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing 102218, China
| | - Hongbo Wei
- Beijing Institute of Spacecraft System Engineering, China Academy of Space Technology, Beijing 100094, China
| | - Anni Deng
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, School of Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China; (X.J.)
| | - Zeyin Mao
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, School of Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China; (X.J.)
| | - Ying Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Beijing Tsinghua Changgung Hospital, School of Clinical Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing 102218, China
| | - Zhen Zeng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Beijing Tsinghua Changgung Hospital, School of Clinical Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing 102218, China
| | - Yifan Wu
- School of Clinical Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China; (M.L.)
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Beijing Tsinghua Changgung Hospital, School of Clinical Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing 102218, China
| | - Shuai Liu
- School of Clinical Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China; (M.L.)
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Beijing Tsinghua Changgung Hospital, School of Clinical Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing 102218, China
| | - Juhyun Kim
- School of Clinical Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China; (M.L.)
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Beijing Tsinghua Changgung Hospital, School of Clinical Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing 102218, China
| | - Xiaoqian Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Beijing Tsinghua Changgung Hospital, School of Clinical Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing 102218, China
| | - Ying Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Beijing Tsinghua Changgung Hospital, School of Clinical Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing 102218, China
| | - Jun Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Beijing Tsinghua Changgung Hospital, School of Clinical Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing 102218, China
| | - Wenqi Lv
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, School of Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China; (X.J.)
| | - Leyang Huang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, School of Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China; (X.J.)
| | - Qinping Liao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Beijing Tsinghua Changgung Hospital, School of Clinical Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing 102218, China
| | - Guoliang Huang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, School of Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China; (X.J.)
| | - Lei Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Beijing Tsinghua Changgung Hospital, School of Clinical Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing 102218, China
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7
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San Juan Galán J, Poliquin V, Gerstein AC. Insights and advances in recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis. PLoS Pathog 2023; 19:e1011684. [PMID: 37948448 PMCID: PMC10637712 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1011684] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Javier San Juan Galán
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Science, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | - Vanessa Poliquin
- Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | - Aleeza Cara Gerstein
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Science, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
- Department of Statistics, Faculty of Science, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
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8
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Bonfim AP, Sakita KM, Faria DR, Arita GS, Rodrigues-Vendramini FA, Capoci IR, Braga AG, Mosca VA, Junior AG, Kioshima ÉS, Bonfim-Mendonça PS, Svidzinski TI. Successful treatment of experimental murine vulvovaginal candidiasis with gentian violet. Future Microbiol 2023; 18:1137-1146. [PMID: 37830930 DOI: 10.2217/fmb-2023-0021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2023] [Accepted: 06/12/2023] [Indexed: 10/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Aim: This study evaluated the antifungal efficacy of gentian violet (GV) in an experimental vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) model. Materials & methods: In vitro susceptibility and cytotoxicity assays were performed to validate the antifungal potential and safety of GV. The antifungal efficacy was then evaluated in vivo through comparative analysis of the fungal burden following treatment with GV or nystatin, as well as assessment of the vaginal tissue by histology and electron microscopy. Results: GV demonstrated a safe antifungal profile against C. albicans, with a significant decrease in fungal burden and an improvement in the inflammatory process evaluated histologically. Conclusion: The results of this study motivate further assessment of GV as a promising alternative for VVC therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda P Bonfim
- Medical Mycology Laboratory, Clinical Analyzes & Biomedicine Department, State University of Maringa, Maringa, PR, 87020-900, Brazil
| | - Karina M Sakita
- Medical Mycology Laboratory, Clinical Analyzes & Biomedicine Department, State University of Maringa, Maringa, PR, 87020-900, Brazil
| | - Daniella R Faria
- Medical Mycology Laboratory, Clinical Analyzes & Biomedicine Department, State University of Maringa, Maringa, PR, 87020-900, Brazil
| | - Glaucia S Arita
- Medical Mycology Laboratory, Clinical Analyzes & Biomedicine Department, State University of Maringa, Maringa, PR, 87020-900, Brazil
| | - Franciele Av Rodrigues-Vendramini
- Medical Mycology Laboratory, Clinical Analyzes & Biomedicine Department, State University of Maringa, Maringa, PR, 87020-900, Brazil
| | - Isis Rg Capoci
- Medical Mycology Laboratory, Clinical Analyzes & Biomedicine Department, State University of Maringa, Maringa, PR, 87020-900, Brazil
| | - Andressa G Braga
- Medical Mycology Laboratory, Clinical Analyzes & Biomedicine Department, State University of Maringa, Maringa, PR, 87020-900, Brazil
| | - Valéria Ab Mosca
- Medical Mycology Laboratory, Clinical Analyzes & Biomedicine Department, State University of Maringa, Maringa, PR, 87020-900, Brazil
| | - Admilton Go Junior
- Electron Microscopy & Microanalysis Laboratory, State University of Londrina, Londrina, PR, 86057-970, Brazil
| | - Érika S Kioshima
- Medical Mycology Laboratory, Clinical Analyzes & Biomedicine Department, State University of Maringa, Maringa, PR, 87020-900, Brazil
| | - Patrícia S Bonfim-Mendonça
- Medical Mycology Laboratory, Clinical Analyzes & Biomedicine Department, State University of Maringa, Maringa, PR, 87020-900, Brazil
| | - Terezinha Ie Svidzinski
- Medical Mycology Laboratory, Clinical Analyzes & Biomedicine Department, State University of Maringa, Maringa, PR, 87020-900, Brazil
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9
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Maani-Shirazi R, Yazdanpanah S, Yazdani M, Zomorodian K, Ayatollah-Mosavi A. Species identification, antifungal susceptibility patterns, and vitamin D3 level in women with vaginal candidiasis: a case-control study in Iran. Women Health 2023; 63:727-735. [PMID: 37771196 DOI: 10.1080/03630242.2023.2262623] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2023] [Accepted: 09/19/2023] [Indexed: 09/30/2023]
Abstract
Vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) is a fungal infection that is a global issue of women's health due to its association with morbidity, infertility, and economic costs. This study aimed to compare the vitamin D3 levels between women with VVC to healthy controls and determine the species distribution and susceptibility pattern of isolates. Species identification was performed using sequencing of the ITS-rDNA regions and amplification of the HWP1 gene. Antifungal susceptibility testing was determined by the disk diffusion method. Moreover, serum vitamin D3 levels were measured using a commercial ELISA (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay) kit. Our results indicated that vitamin D3 level in women with VVC was lower than those of healthy women (p-value < .001). Candida albicans complex (62.8 percent) was the most common species, and most species were susceptible to fluconazole, itraconazole, ketoconazole, and nystatin. In conclusion, our study revealed a potential link between vitamin D3 deficiency and VVC in women. Although our findings showed significantly lower vitamin D3 levels in women with VVC, further research is needed to establish a definitive causative relationship between vitamin D3 deficiency and VVC. Nonetheless, our study highlights the potential importance of maintaining adequate levels of vitamin D3 and the need for further exploration in this area.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Somayeh Yazdanpanah
- Department of Medical Mycology and Parasitology, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Maryam Yazdani
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Kamiar Zomorodian
- Department of Medical Mycology and Parasitology, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
- Basic Sciences in Infectious Diseases Research Center, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
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10
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Gerges MA, Fahmy YA, Hosny T, Gandor NH, Mohammed SY, Mohamed TMA, Abdelmoteleb NEM, Esmaeel NE. Biofilm Formation and Aspartyl Proteinase Activity and Their Association with Azole Resistance Among Candida albicans Causing Vulvovaginal Candidiasis, Egypt. Infect Drug Resist 2023; 16:5283-5293. [PMID: 37601561 PMCID: PMC10439283 DOI: 10.2147/idr.s420580] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2023] [Accepted: 08/01/2023] [Indexed: 08/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Candida albicans (C. albicans) is a major cause of vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC), a condition that is commonly treated with azole agents. Biofilm formation and aspartyl proteinase production are important virulence factors that could be linked to azole resistance in C. albicans impeding therapy. Aim To find out the association of both factors with azole resistance among C. albicans isolated from VVC cases in Egyptian nonpregnant women of childbearing age. Patients and Methods In a cross-sectional study, C. albicans was isolated from nonpregnant females diagnosed clinically as having VVC during a 1-year study period. Susceptibility to azole agents was tested using the disc diffusion method. Biofilm formation and aspartyl proteinase production were assessed phenotypically. Additionally, two biofilm-related genes (ALS1 and HWP1) and three proteinase genes (SAP2, SAP4, and SAP6) were screened for using polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Results Among 204 C. albicans isolates, azole resistance ratios were as follows: voriconazole (30.4%), itraconazole (17.6%), fluconazole (11.3%) and econazole (6.4%). Biofilm-producing capacity was detected in 63.2% of isolates, and 63.2% were proteinase producers. The frequencies of ALS1 and HWP1 were 69.6% and 74.5%, respectively, while SAP2, SAP4, and SAP6 were 69.2%, 88.7%, and 64.7%, respectively. Biofilm formation was significantly associated with azole resistance (P < 0.001 for each tested azole agent) as was proteinase production (P < 0.001 for fluconazole, voriconazole, and econazole resistance and P = 0.047 for itraconazole). Conclusion Among nonpregnant Egyptian women of childbearing age, azole resistance in C. albicans causing VVC is significantly associated with biofilm formation and proteinase production. The development of new therapeutic agents that can target these factors is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marian A Gerges
- Medical Microbiology and Immunology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig, Egypt
| | - Yasmin Ahmed Fahmy
- Medical Microbiology and Immunology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig, Egypt
| | - Thoraya Hosny
- Clinical Pathology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig, Egypt
| | - Nessma H Gandor
- Clinical Pathology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig, Egypt
| | - Sherif Y Mohammed
- Clinical Pathology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig, Egypt
| | | | | | - Noura E Esmaeel
- Medical Microbiology and Immunology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig, Egypt
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11
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Vandecruys P, Baldewijns S, Sillen M, Van Genechten W, Van Dijck P. Oteseconazole: a long-awaited diversification of the antifungal arsenal to manage recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis (RVVC). Expert Rev Anti Infect Ther 2023; 21:799-812. [PMID: 37449774 DOI: 10.1080/14787210.2023.2233696] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2023] [Revised: 06/06/2023] [Accepted: 07/03/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis (RVVC) affects women worldwide and has far-reaching implications for a patient's quality of life. For decades, maintenance treatment using the azole antifungal fluconazole was the preferred treatment. Although efficient in controlling the symptoms, the development of azole resistance and high rates of recurrence after therapy cessation have emerged as significant limitations. Nevertheless, persistent efforts have delivered novel treatment options. Oteseconazole (VT-1161), marketed as VIVJOA, is an oral, tetrazole antifungal with unprecedented specificity toward the fungal lanosterol 14α-demethylase. AREAS COVERED We reviewed literature data on oteseconazole with a focus on the management of RVVC. EXPERT OPINION Therapeutic options for RVVC are limited, and novel, innovative approaches are needed to treat this debilitating condition. These therapies need to be well-tolerated and prevent RVVC recurrence. The available clinical data show excellent safety and efficacy, with an unprecedentedly low recurrence rate. However, we believe health-care providers should be mindful to monitor for the development of resistance, as this may result in treatment failure. Further, the availability and cost may, like for most novel drugs, affect the widespread clinical implementation of VIVJOA. Altogether, we are convinced that VIVJOA is a significant advance in RVVC management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul Vandecruys
- Laboratory of Molecular Cell Biology, Department of Biology, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Silke Baldewijns
- Laboratory of Molecular Cell Biology, Department of Biology, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Mart Sillen
- Laboratory of Molecular Cell Biology, Department of Biology, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Wouter Van Genechten
- Laboratory of Molecular Cell Biology, Department of Biology, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Patrick Van Dijck
- Laboratory of Molecular Cell Biology, Department of Biology, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
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12
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The Role of the Mycobiome in Women’s Health. J Fungi (Basel) 2023; 9:jof9030348. [PMID: 36983516 PMCID: PMC10051763 DOI: 10.3390/jof9030348] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2023] [Revised: 02/19/2023] [Accepted: 03/09/2023] [Indexed: 03/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Although the human bacteriome and virome have gained a great deal of attention over the years, the human mycobiome has been far more neglected despite having significant value and implications in human health. In women, mycobiome profiles in breastmilk, vaginal regions, the gut, skin, and the oral cavity can provide insight into women’s health, diseases, and microbiome dysbiosis. Analyses of mycobiome composition under factors, such as health, age, diet, weight, and drug exposure (including antibiotic therapies), help to elucidate the various roles of women’s mycobiome in homeostasis, microbiome interactions (synergistic and antagonistic), and health. This review summarizes the most recent updates to mycobiome knowledge in these critical areas.
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13
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High diversity of yeast species and strains responsible for vulvovaginal candidiasis in South-East Gabon. J Mycol Med 2022; 33:101354. [PMID: 36473325 DOI: 10.1016/j.mycmed.2022.101354] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2022] [Revised: 11/10/2022] [Accepted: 11/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Candida albicans generally remains the principal pathogenic yeast responsible for vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC), although with variable prevalence. In this study, we evaluated the evolution of the prevalence of the non-Candida albicans Candida (NCAC) species and investigated the genotypic diversity and the population genetic structure of the circulating C. albicans strains associated with VVC in the vicinity of Franceville (Gabon). METHODS A total of 110 independent isolates were identified using both MALDI-TOF MS and conventional techniques. The population genetic structure of the C. albicans strains was determined by multiple locus variable-number tandem repeat analysis using 4 microsatellite markers. RESULTS The mean and median age of the patients was 31 years. Seven patients had a mixed infection. C. albicans accounted for 62 % (n=68) of the total isolates. NCAC were dominated by C. glabrata, followed by P. kudriavzevii, C. parapsilosis, C. tropicalis, M. guilliermondii, and C. nivariensis. The cluster analysis revealed a high diversity, with a total of 50 different genotypes. The most represented genotype was shared by only four strains, while the vast majority (39 strains) had a unique MLVA pattern. Geographic clusters were not detected. CONCLUSION The study provides information on species distribution and possible changing epidemiology while reporting for the first time C. nivariensis in VVC in Africa. This study is also the first to investigate the genotypic diversity of the circulating C. albicans strains associated with VVC in Central Africa. Such analyses would help understand the molecular epidemiology of C. albicans.
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14
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Khaksar Baniasadi A, Ayatollahi Mosavi SA, Sharifi I, Bamorovat M, Salari S, Ahmadi A, Amanizadeh A, Agha Kuchak Afshari S. Vulvovaginal candidiasis in Iranian women: Molecular identification and antifungal susceptibility pattern. J Obstet Gynaecol Res 2022; 48:3292-3303. [PMID: 36184563 DOI: 10.1111/jog.15442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2022] [Revised: 09/08/2022] [Accepted: 09/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
AIM Vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC), is a common fungal infection that remains a global concern. The objectives of this study were molecular identification and assessment of the antifungal susceptibility profile of Candida species, causing VVC in southeast Iran. METHODS A cross-sectional investigation was carried out on 119 nonpregnant females suspected of VVC between February 2019 and May 2021. Yeast samples were characterized to the species level by conventional and molecular methods. All Candida isolates were examined for in vitro susceptibility profile to six conventional antifungal drugs using Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute guidelines. RESULTS Out of 119 subjects, 52 (43.7%) cases were affected by VVC, out of whom 11 (21.15%) cases had recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis (RVVC). The species distribution was as follows; Candida albicans (n = 21; 40.4%), C. glabrata (n = 11; 21.2%), C. tropicalis (n = 9; 17.3%), C. parapsilosis (n = 5; 9.7%), C. africana (n = 3; 5.7%), C. famata (n = 1; 1.9%), C. lusitaniae (n = 1; 1.9%), and C. dubliniensis (n = 1; 1.9%). The resistance rate of Candida isolates to fluconazole, itraconazole, and voriconazole were 15.38%, 11.5%, and 3.8%, respectively. Resistance to fluconazole was obtained in 46% (5/11) of RVVC cases but only in 7% (3/41) of VVC cases. CONCLUSION This study demonstrated that the majority of VVC cases were caused by non-albicans Candida species which also were resistant to some antifungal agents. Hence, our findings revealed the importance of conducting periodical epidemiological studies to determine changes in species distribution. Moreover, for effective management of treatment and infection, it is imperative to evaluate the susceptibility profiles of Candida species isolated from VVC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Khaksar Baniasadi
- Student Research Committee, Afzalipour Faculty of Medicine, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran.,Medical Mycology and Bacteriology Research Center, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Seyyed Amin Ayatollahi Mosavi
- Medical Mycology and Bacteriology Research Center, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran.,Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, Afzalipour Faculty of Medicine, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Iraj Sharifi
- Leishmaniasis Research Center, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Mehdi Bamorovat
- Leishmaniasis Research Center, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Samira Salari
- Medical Mycology and Bacteriology Research Center, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran.,Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, Afzalipour Faculty of Medicine, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Atefeh Ahmadi
- Nursing Research Center, Department of Counseling in Midwifery, Razi Faculty of Nursing and Midwifery, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Azam Amanizadeh
- Medical Mycology and Bacteriology Research Center, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran.,Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, Afzalipour Faculty of Medicine, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Setareh Agha Kuchak Afshari
- Medical Mycology and Bacteriology Research Center, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran.,Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, Afzalipour Faculty of Medicine, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
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15
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Donders G, Sziller IO, Paavonen J, Hay P, de Seta F, Bohbot JM, Kotarski J, Vives JA, Szabo B, Cepuliené R, Mendling W. Management of recurrent vulvovaginal candidosis: Narrative review of the literature and European expert panel opinion. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2022; 12:934353. [PMID: 36159646 PMCID: PMC9504472 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2022.934353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2022] [Accepted: 08/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Recurrent vulvovaginal candidosis (RVVC) is a chronic, difficult to treat vaginal infection, caused by Candida species, which affects women of all ages and ethnic and social background. A long-term prophylactic maintenance regimen with antifungals is often necessary. In most clinical practice guidelines, oral fluconazole is recommended as the first-line treatment. Although clinical resistance to antifungal agents remains rare, overexposure to azoles may increase the development of fluconazole-resistant C. albicans strains. In addition, non-albicans Candida species are frequently dose-dependent susceptible or resistant to fluconazole and other azoles, and their prevalence is rising. Available therapeutic options to treat such fluconazole-resistant C. albicans and low susceptibility non-albicans strains are limited. Ten experts from different European countries discussed problematic issues of current RVVC diagnosis and treatment in two audiotaped online sessions and two electronic follow-up rounds. A total of 340 statements were transcribed, summarized, and compared with published evidence. The profile of patients with RVVC, their care pathways, current therapeutic needs, and potential value of novel drugs were addressed. Correct diagnosis, right treatment choice, and patient education to obtain adherence to therapy regimens are crucial for successful RVVC treatment. As therapeutic options are limited, innovative strategies are required. Well- tolerated and effective new drugs with an optimized mechanism of action are desirable and are discussed. Research into the impact of RVVC and treatments on health-related quality of life and sex life is also needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gilbert Donders
- Femicare VZW, Clinical Research for Women, Tienen, Belgium
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Regional Hospital Tienen, Tienen, Belgium
| | - István Oszkár Sziller
- Dél-budai Centrumkórház, Szent Imre Egyetemi Oktatókórház, Szülészet és Nőgyógyászati Osztály, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Jorma Paavonen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Phillip Hay
- Guys and St. Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Francesco de Seta
- Department of Medical, Surgical and Health Sciences, Institute for Maternal and Child Health, University of Trieste, IRCCS Burlo Garofolo, Trieste, Italy
| | - Jean Marc Bohbot
- Department of Sexually Transmitted Infections, Institut Alfred Fournier, Paris, France
| | - Jan Kotarski
- Department of Oncological Gynecology and Gynecology, Medical University of Lublin, Lublin, Poland
| | - Jordi Antoni Vives
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Hospital CIMA, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Bela Szabo
- Department of Obstetrics-Gynecology, “George Emil Palade” University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Science and Technology, Targu-Mures, Romania
| | - Ramona Cepuliené
- Gedeon Richter Plc., Budapest, Hungary
- *Correspondence: Ramona Cepuliené,
| | - Werner Mendling
- Deutsches Zentrum für Infektionen in Gynäkologie und Geburtshilfe, Helios Universitätsklinikum Wuppertal, Wuppertal, Germany
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16
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Brown L, Chamula M, Weinberg S, Jbueen F, Rautemaa-Richardson R. Compliance with the Updated BASHH Recurrent Vulvovaginal Candidiasis Guidelines Improves Patient Outcomes. J Fungi (Basel) 2022; 8:jof8090924. [PMID: 36135648 PMCID: PMC9503580 DOI: 10.3390/jof8090924] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2022] [Revised: 08/15/2022] [Accepted: 08/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis (RVVC) is a debilitating, chronic condition that affects over 138 million (6%) women of reproductive age annually. We performed a retrospective audit of RVVC referrals to our tertiary care Candida clinic to evaluate the impact of the significantly updated British Association of Sexual Health and HIV (BASHH) 2019 vulvovaginal candidiasis guidelines on patient outcomes, the principles of which were implemented at our centre at the onset of the guideline revision process in 2017. A total of 78 women referred with suspected RVVC in 2017–2020 were included. Their mean symptom duration prior to referral was 6.7 years. RVVC was the definitive diagnosis in 73% of cases. In the 27% of patients without RVVC, the most common diagnoses were acute VVC (29%), vulval eczema (14%), dry skin (14%) and vulvodynia (10%). Of those with RVVC, 60% were diagnosed with an additional diagnosis, most commonly vulval eczema or vulvodynia. Only 12% of women had been counselled on appropriate vulval skin care, the mainstay of RVVC management. Long-term antifungal suppression was initiated in 68% of women. Azole-resistant Candida, for which there is no licensed treatment available in the UK, was identified in 23% of women with RVVC. In the follow-up, 82% of patients reported good control of symptoms using antifungal suppression therapy and recommended skin care, 16% had partial symptom control with some “flare-ups” responding to treatment, none reported poor control and for 2% this information was not available. RVVC-related morbidity can be reduced by following the principles outlined in the BASHH guidelines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lottie Brown
- Division of Evolution, Infection and Genomics, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester M23 9LT, UK
- Guys and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust, London SE1 7EH, UK
| | - Mathilde Chamula
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Wythenshawe Hospital, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester M23 9LT, UK
- Mycology Reference Centre Manchester, Wythenshawe Hospital, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester M23 9LT, UK
| | - Sharon Weinberg
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Wythenshawe Hospital, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester M23 9LT, UK
- The Mid Yorkshire Hospitals NHS Trust, Wakefield WF1 4DG, UK
| | - Frakinda Jbueen
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Wythenshawe Hospital, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester M23 9LT, UK
| | - Riina Rautemaa-Richardson
- Division of Evolution, Infection and Genomics, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester M23 9LT, UK
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Wythenshawe Hospital, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester M23 9LT, UK
- Mycology Reference Centre Manchester, Wythenshawe Hospital, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester M23 9LT, UK
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17
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Nyirjesy P, Brookhart C, Lazenby G, Schwebke J, Sobel JD. Vulvovaginal Candidiasis: A Review of the Evidence for the 2021 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention of Sexually Transmitted Infections Treatment Guidelines. Clin Infect Dis 2022; 74:S162-S168. [PMID: 35416967 DOI: 10.1093/cid/ciab1057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) is a common cause of vulvovaginal itching and discharge. This article discusses the latest CDC STI Treatment Guidelines for VVC. METHODS A literature search of relevant topics was performed, and a team of experts was convened to discuss (1) diagnosis/testing modalities; treatment of (2) uncomplicated VVC , (3) complicated VVC, and (4) VVC caused by non-albicans yeast; (5) alternative treatment regimens; (6) susceptibility testing of yeast; Special Populations: (7) pregnancy and (8) HIV and VVC. RESULTS Yeast culture remains the gold standard for diagnoses. Newer molecular assays have been developed for the diagnosis of VVC and perform well. Azole antifungals remain the treatment of choice for uncomplicated VVC. Two new drugs, TOL-463 and recently FDA-approved ibrexafungerp, appeared promising in clinical trials. For recurrent VVC, oteseconazole, not yet commercially available, may represent a new option. For non-albicans yeast infections in symptomatic patients, boric acid appears useful. No evidence supports the use of alternative treatments, including probiotics. Fluconazole during pregnancy may be associated with spontaneous abortion and craniofacial and heart defects. In women with HIV infection, lower CD4+ T-cell counts are associated with increased rates of VVC, and VVC is associated with increased viral shedding. Treatment measures in women with HIV infection are identical to those women without HIV infection. CONCLUSIONS There has been significant new knowledge generated about VVC since the 2015 CDC Guidelines which have led to changing recommendations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul Nyirjesy
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sidney Kimmel Medical College, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Carolyn Brookhart
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Gweneth Lazenby
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
| | - Jane Schwebke
- Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Jack D Sobel
- Department of Internal Medicine, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan, USA
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18
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Antifungal effect of hydroethanolic extract of Fridericia chica (Bonpl.) L. G. Lohmann leaves and its therapeutic use in a vulvovaginal candidosis model. J Mycol Med 2022; 32:101255. [DOI: 10.1016/j.mycmed.2022.101255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2021] [Revised: 01/28/2022] [Accepted: 02/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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19
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Şenyuva İ, Koca C, Karabag Çoban F, Tarhan Ö. Salivary Histatin 5 Level in Women with Vaginal Candidiasis. Int J Clin Pract 2022; 2022:5279323. [PMID: 35832797 PMCID: PMC9252690 DOI: 10.1155/2022/5279323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2022] [Revised: 06/06/2022] [Accepted: 06/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Histatins (Hsts) are considered a prominent member of antimicrobial peptides rich in histidine, bearing antifungal activity against Candida species. Hst5 is the most effective among them. Although Hst5 is not found in the cervicovaginal fluid, it has been detected in the human serum. Saliva acts as a mirror, reflecting the cause and effect relationship between several diseases. We aimed to show the salivary Hst5 levels with vaginal candidiasis. Women in the reproductive age group (18-50 years) were enrolled in the study. Patients and controls were classified based on the presence or absence of vaginal discharge suggestive of candidiasis, respectively. Vaginal and salivary samples were collected from all the women. Vaginal samples were cultured for the growth of Candida species. Salivary samples were tested by protein electrophoresis to detect Hst5 levels, and the results were compared between the two groups. A total of 80 women were included in this study. The mean age of women in vaginal candidiasis and control groups was 34.25 ± 8.06 and 36.83 ± 7.29 years, respectively. Candida species were isolated from the vaginal samples of the patient group (34 C. albicans, 6 non-Candida albicans) but not from the control group. Hst5 levels in the patient and control group were found to be 0.0571 ± 0.003 ng/mL and 0.0641 ± 0,0031 ng/mL, respectively. Hst5 levels were found to be significantly lower in the vaginal candidiasis group (p=0.001). We conclude that decreased salivary Hst5 levels in women are associated with vaginal candidiasis. Candida infection is a cause or result of lower salivary Hst5 levels, and it may be an important finding for the etiopathogenesis, diagnosis, and treatment of the disease, but further analysis is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- İrem Şenyuva
- Usak Training and Research Hospital, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Usak, Turkey
| | - Cansu Koca
- University Faculty of Dentistry, Department of Maxillo Facial Surgery, Usak, Turkey
| | | | - Özgür Tarhan
- Usak University, Faculty of Engineering, Department of Food Engineering, Usak, Turkey
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20
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Sugimoto N, Yamagishi Y, Mikamo H. Effect of Empagliflozin on <i>Candida glabrata</i> Adhesion to Vaginal Epithelial Cells. Med Mycol J 2022; 63:43-47. [DOI: 10.3314/mmj.21-00015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Naomi Sugimoto
- Department of Clinical Infectious Diseases, Aichi Medical University School of Medicine
| | - Yuka Yamagishi
- Department of Clinical Infectious Diseases, Aichi Medical University School of Medicine
| | - Hiroshige Mikamo
- Department of Clinical Infectious Diseases, Aichi Medical University School of Medicine
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21
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Lactobacillus iners Cell-Free Supernatant Enhances Biofilm Formation and Hyphal/Pseudohyphal Growth by Candida albicans Vaginal Isolates. Microorganisms 2021; 9:microorganisms9122577. [PMID: 34946178 PMCID: PMC8706969 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms9122577] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2021] [Revised: 12/09/2021] [Accepted: 12/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Candida albicans is a commensal fungus of the vaginal mucosa and the principal etiological agent of vaginal candidiasis. Vaginal dysbiosis has been reported during vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC), with a progressive decrease in Lactobacillus crispatus population and an increase in L. iners population. To date, the role of L. iners in VVC pathogenesis remains scarcely explored. Herein we investigated the in vitro effect of L. iners cell-free supernatant (CFS) on the ability of C. albicans to form biofilms. Biomass and metabolic activity were measured by crystal violet and XTT assays. Further, light microscopy was performed to determine the effect of L. iners CFS on biofilm cellular morphology. We found that L. iners CFS induced a significant increase in biofilm formation by C. albicans clinical isolates which were categorized as moderate or weak biofilm producers. This effect was associated with an enhancement of hyphal/pseudohyphal growth, and the expression levels of HWP1 and ECE1, which are typical hyphae-associated genes, were upregulated. Overall, these results suggest that L. iners contributes to the pathogenesis of VVC and highlight the complexity of the interaction between C. albicans and vaginal lactobacilli. Understanding these interactions could prove essential for the development of new strategies for treating VVC.
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22
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Mittelstaedt R, Kretz A, Levine M, Handa VL, Ghanem KG, Sobel JD, Powell A, Tuddenham S. Data on Safety of Intravaginal Boric Acid Use in Pregnant and Nonpregnant Women: A Narrative Review. Sex Transm Dis 2021; 48:e241-e247. [PMID: 34561373 PMCID: PMC10100571 DOI: 10.1097/olq.0000000000001562] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Intravaginal boric acid (IBA) represents one of the only options available to treat azole-resistant vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) and is included as part of multiple national guidelines (including the United Kingdom and the United States) for the treatment of VVC or recurrent bacterial vaginosis. Novel products using IBA are under development for treatment and suppression of VVC and bacterial vaginosis. Use of over-the-counter or clinician-prescribed IBA in reproductive-aged women is already widespread and may increase further if drug resistance in VVC rises. However, IBA is not a Food and Drug Administration-approved drug, and safety data are sparse. Given these factors, it is important to understand the currently available data on the safety of IBA use. Herein, we set out to synthesize human and animal data (converting, where appropriate, dose and serum values to standard units to facilitate comparison) to answer 2 key questions: (1) What are the data on the safety of IBA use for women? and (2) What are the data on the safety of IBA use in pregnancy? We find that, despite gaps, available data suggest IBA use is safe, at least when used in doses commonly described in the literature as being prescribed by clinicians. Information on harms in pregnancy is limited, and data remain insufficient to change current guidelines, which recommend IBA avoidance in pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Alyssa Kretz
- Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Medical School
| | - Michael Levine
- University of California Los Angeles School of Medicine, Department of Emergency Medicine
| | - Victoria L. Handa
- Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics
| | - Khalil G. Ghanem
- Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Division of Infectious Disease
| | - Jack D. Sobel
- Wayne State University, Division of Infectious Disease
| | - Anna Powell
- Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics
| | - Susan Tuddenham
- Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Division of Infectious Disease
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23
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Comparing the Effects of Two Cream Formulations, Henna (Lawsonia inermis) and Clotrimazole, on Vaginal Candidiasis: A Randomized Controlled Trial. Jundishapur J Nat Pharm Prod 2021. [DOI: 10.5812/jjnpp.118510] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Vaginal candidiasis is the most prevalent infection among reproductive-aged women. The current treatment for this disorder includes azole compounds. Objectives: The aim of this study was to compare the effects of two creams, henna (Lawsonia inermis) and clotrimazole, on vaginal candidiasis. Methods: In this trial, 80 women with vaginal candidiasis were recruited and randomly assigned into two groups to receive either henna (n = 40) or clotrimazole (n = 40) for one week. The ethanol extract of henna was prepared. Vaginal discharge was cultured, and vaginal pH, colony formation, lactobacillus formation, and vaginitis subjective symptoms were evaluated before and one, two, and four weeks after the intervention. The chi-square test, independent t-test, and Generalized Estimating Equations were were used for analyzing the data using SPSS version 22. Results: After four weeks of the intervention, almost 90% of the women in the henna group declared no burning sensation, itching, discharge, irritation, or dyspareunia, while only 45%, 5%, 37.5%, 52.5%, and 27.5% of the participants in the clotrimazole group did not have these symptoms, respectively (P < 0.001). The means (SD) of colony formation were 290.85 (47.35) and 265.12 (37.46) in the henna and clotrimazole groups, respectively, at the baseline, which reduced to zero and 25.45 (25.09) in the 4th week of the intervention (P = 0.001). Compared with the clotrimazole group, there was a significant increase in the mean of lactobacillus formation and a significant decrease in vaginal pH in the henna group (P < 0.001). Conclusions: Henna vaginal cream could significantly reduce the symptoms of vaginal candidiasis, such as burning sensation, itching, discharge, irritation, and dyspareunia. Also, it could decrease colony formation and vaginal pH and increase lactobacillus formation.
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24
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van Riel SJJM, Lardenoije CMJG, Oudhuis GJ, Cremers NAJ. Treating (Recurrent) Vulvovaginal Candidiasis with Medical-Grade Honey-Concepts and Practical Considerations. J Fungi (Basel) 2021; 7:jof7080664. [PMID: 34436203 PMCID: PMC8400673 DOI: 10.3390/jof7080664] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2021] [Revised: 08/11/2021] [Accepted: 08/13/2021] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis (RVVC) is a relapsing vaginal fungal infection caused by Candida species. The prevalence varies among age populations and can be as high as 9%. Treatment options are limited, and in 57% of the cases, relapses occur within six months after fluconazole maintenance therapy, which is the current standard of care. The pathogenesis of RVVC is multifactorial, and recent studies have demonstrated that the vaginal microenvironment and activity of the immune system have a strong influence on the disease. Medical-grade honey (MGH) has protective, antimicrobial, and immunomodulatory activity and forms a putative alternative treatment. Clinical trials have demonstrated that honey can benefit the treatment of bacterial and Candida-mediated vaginal infections. We postulate that MGH will actively fight ongoing infections; eradicate biofilms; and modulate the vaginal microenvironment by its anti-inflammatory, antioxidative, and immunomodulatory properties, and subsequently may decrease the number of relapses when compared to fluconazole. The MGH formulation L-Mesitran Soft has stronger antimicrobial activity against various Candida species than its raw honey. In advance of a planned randomized controlled clinical trial, we present the setup of a study comparing L-Mesitran Soft with fluconazole and its practical considerations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Senna J. J. M. van Riel
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Maastricht University Medical Centre, 6202 AZ Maastricht, The Netherlands; (S.J.J.M.v.R.); (C.M.J.G.L.)
| | - Celine M. J. G. Lardenoije
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Maastricht University Medical Centre, 6202 AZ Maastricht, The Netherlands; (S.J.J.M.v.R.); (C.M.J.G.L.)
| | - Guy J. Oudhuis
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Maastricht University Medical Centre, NUTRIM School of Nutrition and Translational Research in Metabolism, Faculty of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences, Maastricht University, 6202 AZ Maastricht, The Netherlands;
| | - Niels A. J. Cremers
- Triticum Exploitatie B.V., Sleperweg 44, 6222 NK Maastricht, The Netherlands
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +31-43-325-1773
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25
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Pereira LC, Correia AF, da Silva ZDL, de Resende CN, Brandão F, Almeida RM, de Medeiros Nóbrega YK. Vulvovaginal candidiasis and current perspectives: new risk factors and laboratory diagnosis by using MALDI TOF for identifying species in primary infection and recurrence. Eur J Clin Microbiol Infect Dis 2021; 40:1681-1693. [PMID: 33713006 PMCID: PMC8295079 DOI: 10.1007/s10096-021-04199-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2020] [Accepted: 02/16/2021] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC), considered the second cause of genital infection among women, has pathogenic mechanisms still to be elucidated and unknown risk factors. Prevalence studies with laboratory diagnosis (at first diagnosis and recurrence) are uncommon, especially using MALDI TOF, used in this clinical, epidemiological, and laboratory study for evaluating candidiasis, and identifying unknown risk factors. To obtain clinical and epidemiological data, patients were questioned, and there was material collection. Samples collected were identified by using phenotypic and presumptive methods and confirmed by MALDI TOF. This study analyzed 278 patients, divided into symptomatic (n = 173) and asymptomatic (n = 105) groups. Regarding the main candidiasis symptoms (discharge, itching, and burning), only 50.3% of patients described these concomitant symptoms, showing a positive predictive value of 67.8%. Regarding the risk factors investigated, there was a statistical correlation between candidiasis and dairy products, gut transit, contraceptive use, respiratory allergy, and panty liners, describing new risk factors related to intestinal and vaginal dysbiosis. After Candida species analysis and confirmation, the primary prevalence was 80.9% (Candida albicans), 15.2% (non-albicans), 1% (Rhodotorula mucilaginosa), and 1.9% (unidentified species). In recurrence, the prevalence was 66.7% (C. albicans) and 33.3% (non-albicans). The presence of symptoms has low positive predictive value for the diagnosis of candidiasis, even when considering the classic triad of symptoms. Laboratory identification of yeast species is essential for correct treatment, preventing the resistance to antifungals and the high recurrence. In addition, dairy products and bowel habits, both related to intestinal and vaginal dysbiosis, may be associated with VVC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lívia Custódio Pereira
- Vulvar Pathology Clinic, Department of Gynecology, Brasilia University Hospital, University of Brasilia, Brasília, DF, Brazil
- Microbiology and Immunology Clinical Laboratory, Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Brasilia, Darcy Ribeiro Campus, Brasília, DF, 70900-910, Brazil
| | - Amabel Fernandes Correia
- Medical Biology Management, Center of Parasitology and Mycology, Central Public Health Laboratory of the District Federal (LACEN-DF), Brasília, DF, Brazil
| | - Zita Dinis Lopes da Silva
- Microbiology and Immunology Clinical Laboratory, Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Brasilia, Darcy Ribeiro Campus, Brasília, DF, 70900-910, Brazil
| | - Ceres Nunes de Resende
- Vulvar Pathology Clinic, Department of Gynecology, Brasilia University Hospital, University of Brasilia, Brasília, DF, Brazil
| | - Fabiana Brandão
- Microbiology and Immunology Clinical Laboratory, Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Brasilia, Darcy Ribeiro Campus, Brasília, DF, 70900-910, Brazil
| | - Rosane Mansan Almeida
- Microbiology and Immunology Clinical Laboratory, Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Brasilia, Darcy Ribeiro Campus, Brasília, DF, 70900-910, Brazil
| | - Yanna Karla de Medeiros Nóbrega
- Microbiology and Immunology Clinical Laboratory, Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Brasilia, Darcy Ribeiro Campus, Brasília, DF, 70900-910, Brazil.
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26
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Workowski KA, Bachmann LH, Chan PA, Johnston CM, Muzny CA, Park I, Reno H, Zenilman JM, Bolan GA. Sexually Transmitted Infections Treatment Guidelines, 2021. MMWR Recomm Rep 2021; 70:1-187. [PMID: 34292926 PMCID: PMC8344968 DOI: 10.15585/mmwr.rr7004a1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 784] [Impact Index Per Article: 261.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
These guidelines for the treatment of persons who have or are at risk for
sexually transmitted infections (STIs) were updated by CDC after consultation
with professionals knowledgeable in the field of STIs who met in Atlanta,
Georgia, June 11–14, 2019. The information in this report updates the
2015 guidelines. These guidelines discuss 1) updated recommendations for
treatment of Neisseria gonorrhoeae, Chlamydia trachomatis,
and Trichomonas vaginalis; 2) addition of
metronidazole to the recommended treatment regimen for pelvic inflammatory
disease; 3) alternative treatment options for bacterial vaginosis; 4) management
of Mycoplasma genitalium; 5) human papillomavirus vaccine
recommendations and counseling messages; 6) expanded risk factors for syphilis
testing among pregnant women; 7) one-time testing for hepatitis C infection; 8)
evaluation of men who have sex with men after sexual assault; and 9) two-step
testing for serologic diagnosis of genital herpes simplex virus. Physicians and
other health care providers can use these guidelines to assist in prevention and
treatment of STIs.
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27
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Ardizzoni A, Wheeler RT, Pericolini E. It Takes Two to Tango: How a Dysregulation of the Innate Immunity, Coupled With Candida Virulence, Triggers VVC Onset. Front Microbiol 2021; 12:692491. [PMID: 34163460 PMCID: PMC8215348 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2021.692491] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2021] [Accepted: 05/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) is a symptomatic inflammation of the vagina mainly caused by C. albicans. Other species, such as C. parapsilosis, C. glabrata, C. tropicalis, and C. krusei, are mainly associated to the recurrent form of the disease (RVVC), although with a lower frequency. In its yeast form, C. albicans is tolerated by the vaginal epithelium, but switching to the invasive hyphal form, co-regulated with the expression of genes encoding virulence factors such as secreted aspartyl proteases (Sap) and candidalysin, allows for tissue damage. Vaginal epithelial cells play an important role by impairing C. albicans tissue invasion through several mechanisms such as epithelial shedding, secretion of mucin and strong interepithelial cell connections. However, morphotype switching coupled to increasing of the fungal burden can overcome the tolerance threshold and trigger an intense inflammatory response. Pathological inflammation is believed to be facilitated by an altered vaginal microbiome, i.e., Lactobacillus dysbiosis. Notwithstanding the damage caused by the fungus itself, the host response to the fungus plays an important role in the onset of VVC, exacerbating fungal-mediated damage. This response can be triggered by host PRR-fungal PAMP interaction and other more complex mechanisms (i.e., Sap-mediated NLRP3 activation and candidalysin), ultimately leading to strong neutrophil recruitment. However, recruited neutrophils appear to be ineffective at reducing fungal burden and invasion; therefore, they seem to contribute more to the symptoms associated with vaginitis than to protection against the disease. Recently, two aspects of the vulvovaginal environment have been found to associate with VVC and induce neutrophil anergy in vitro: perinuclear anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies (pANCA) and heparan sulfate. Interestingly, CAGTA antibodies have also been found with higher frequency in VVC as compared to asymptomatic colonized women. This review highlights and discusses recent advances on understanding the VVC pathogenesis mechanisms as well as the role of host defenses during the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Ardizzoni
- Department of Surgical, Medical, Dental and Morphological Sciences with Interest in Transplant, Oncological and Regenerative Medicine, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Robert T Wheeler
- Department of Molecular and Biomedical Sciences, University of Maine, Orono, ME, United States.,Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences and Engineering, University of Maine, Orono, ME, United States
| | - Eva Pericolini
- Department of Surgical, Medical, Dental and Morphological Sciences with Interest in Transplant, Oncological and Regenerative Medicine, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy.,Graduate School of Microbiology and Virology, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
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28
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Ferreira PS, Victorelli FD, Rodero CF, Fortunato GC, Araújo VHS, Fonseca-Santos B, Bauab TM, Van Dijck P, Chorilli M. p-Coumaric acid loaded into liquid crystalline systems as a novel strategy to the treatment of vulvovaginal candidiasis. Int J Pharm 2021; 603:120658. [PMID: 33964336 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2021.120658] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2021] [Revised: 04/08/2021] [Accepted: 04/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) is an extremely common type of vaginal infection, which is mainly caused by Candida albicans. However, non-albicans Candida species are frequently more resistant to conventional antifungal agents and can represent up to 30% of cases. Due to side effects and increasing antifungal resistance presented by standard therapies, phenolic compounds, such as p-coumaric acid (p-CA), have been studied as molecules from natural sources with potential antifungal activity. p-CA is a poorly water-soluble compound, thus loading it into liquid crystals (LCs) may increase its solubility and effectiveness on the vaginal mucosa. Thereby, here we propose the development of mucoadhesive liquid crystalline systems with controlled release of p-CA, for the local treatment of VVC. Developed LCs consisted of fixed oily and aqueous phases (oleic acid and cholesterol (5:1) and poloxamer dispersion 16%, respectively), changing only the surfactant phase components (triethanolamine oleate (TEA-Oleate) or triethanolamine (TEA), the latter producing TEA-Oleate molecules when mixed with oleic acid). Systems were also diluted in artificial vaginal mucus (1:1 ratio) to mimic the vaginal environment and verify possible structural changes on formulations upon exposure to the mucosa. From the characterization assays, p-CA loaded TEA-Oleate systems presented mucoadhesive profile, liquid crystalline mesophases, well-organized structures and pseudoplastic behaviour, which are desirable parameters for topical formulations. Moreover, they were able to control the release of p-CA throughout the 12 h assay, as well as decrease its permeation into the vaginal mucosa. p-CA showed antifungal activity in vitro against reference strains of C. albicans (SC5314), C. glabrata (ATCC 2001) and C. krusei (ATCC 6258), and exhibited higher eradication of mature biofilms than amphotericin B and fluconazole. In vivo experiments demonstrated that the formulations reduced the presence of filamentous forms in the vaginal lavages and provided an improvement in swelling and redness present in the mice vaginal regions. Altogether, here we demonstrated the potential and feasibility of using p-CA loaded liquid crystalline systems as a mucoadhesive drug delivery system for topical treatment of VVC.
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Affiliation(s)
- P S Ferreira
- Department of Drugs and Medicines, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Araraquara, São Paulo, Brazil.
| | - F D Victorelli
- Department of Drugs and Medicines, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Araraquara, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - C F Rodero
- Department of Drugs and Medicines, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Araraquara, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - G C Fortunato
- Department of Biological Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Araraquara, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - V H S Araújo
- Department of Drugs and Medicines, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Araraquara, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - B Fonseca-Santos
- Department of Drugs and Medicines, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Araraquara, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - T M Bauab
- Department of Biological Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Araraquara, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - P Van Dijck
- Laboratory of Molecular Cell Biology, Institute of Botany and Microbiology, KU Leuven, Leuven-Heverlee, Belgium; VIB-KU Leuven Center for Microbiology, Flanders, Belgium
| | - M Chorilli
- Department of Drugs and Medicines, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Araraquara, São Paulo, Brazil
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29
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Sasani E, Rafat Z, Ashrafi K, Salimi Y, Zandi M, Soltani S, Hashemi F, Hashemi SJ. Vulvovaginal candidiasis in Iran: A systematic review and meta-analysis on the epidemiology, clinical manifestations, demographic characteristics, risk factors, etiologic agents and laboratory diagnosis. Microb Pathog 2021; 154:104802. [PMID: 33741400 DOI: 10.1016/j.micpath.2021.104802] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2020] [Accepted: 02/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Vulvovaginal candidiasis is a global issue of concern due to its association with economic costs, sexually transmitted infections, and ascending genital tract diseases. This infection affects 75% of women on at least one occasion over a lifetime. The present systematic review and meta-analysis is the first to determine the prevalence of vulvovaginal candidiasis in Iranian women. We searched national (SID, IranDoc, Iranmedex, and Magiran) and international (PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar, and web of science) databases for studies published between May 2000 until May 2020 reporting the epidemiologic features of vulvovaginal candidiasis in Iranian women. Inclusion and exclusion criteria were defined to select eligible studies. Data were extracted and presented according to PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines. The results of the meta-analysis were visualized as a forest plot representing the prevalence estimates of each study. Heterogeneity was also analyzed using the I2, and Chi2 statistics. The literature search revealed 1929 studies, of which 39 studies met the eligibility criteria, consisting of 10536 women with vulvovaginal symptoms from 24 different cities covering all parts of Iran. The city with the highest number of studies was Tehran (5/39). The overall prevalence of vulvovaginal candidiasis among Iranian women was 47% (95% CI, 0/38-0/55%) and Candida albicans was the most prevalent etiologic agent. The use of oral contraceptive pills (OCPs) was the predominant risk factor for developing vulvovaginal candidiasis and vaginal cheese-like discharges were the predominant clinical manifestation in Iranian women suffering from vulvovaginal candidiasis. The 25-34-year-old age group has the highest prevalence. A high level of I2 (I2 = 98.7%, P = 0.000) and Chi2 (Chi2 = 2993.57, P < 0.001) was obtained among studies, which provides evidence of notable heterogeneity between studies. The present meta-analysis revealed a high prevalence of vulvovaginal candidiasis in Iranian women. Given that this infection is associated with the enhanced susceptibility to sexually transmitted diseases (HIV, chlamydia, genital herpes, genital warts, gonorrhea, hepatitis, syphilis, and trichomoniasis) and also is related to the increased probability of preterm birth, congenital cutaneous candidiasis, preterm labor, and infertility, taking preventive measures such as awareness of patients as well as monitoring and controlling of the syndrome are essential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elahe Sasani
- Department of Mycology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Zahra Rafat
- Department. of Medical Microbiology, School of Medicine, Guilan University of Medical Sciences, Rasht, Iran
| | - Keyhan Ashrafi
- Department. of Medical Microbiology, School of Medicine, Guilan University of Medical Sciences, Rasht, Iran
| | - Yahya Salimi
- Social Developing & Health Promotion Research Center, Health Institute, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Milad Zandi
- Department of Medical Virology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Saber Soltani
- Department of Medical Virology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Farshid Hashemi
- School of Pharmacy, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Seyed Jamal Hashemi
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Food Microbiology Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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30
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Bonfim-Mendonça PDS, Tobaldini-Valério FK, Capoci IR, Faria DR, Sakita KM, Arita GS, Negri M, Kioshima ÉS, Svidzinski TI. Different expression levels of ALS and SAP genes contribute to recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis by Candida albicans. Future Microbiol 2021; 16:211-219. [PMID: 33595345 DOI: 10.2217/fmb-2020-0059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Aim: To study the behavior of Candida albicans in women with vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC), recurrent VVC (RVVC) and asymptomatic (AS), regarding adhesion on HeLa cells and their ability to express secreted aspartic proteinases (SAP) genes, agglutinin-like sequence (ALS) genes and HWP1. Materials & methods: The adhesion of Candida albicans to HeLa cells was evaluated by colony-forming units, and the expressed genes were evaluated by qRT-PCR. Results: AS and VVC isolates showed greater ability to adhere HeLa cells when compared with RVVC isolate. Nevertheless, RVVC isolate exhibited upregulation of a large number of genes of ALS and SAP gene families and HWP1 gene. Conclusion: The results demonstrated that RVVC isolate expressed significantly important genes for invasion and yeast-host interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrícia de S Bonfim-Mendonça
- Departamento de Análises Clínicas e Biomedicina. Laboratório Micologia Médica. Universidade Estadual de Maringá. Maringá, Paraná, CEP: 87020-900, Brazil.,Programa de Pós-graduação em Biociências e Fisiopatologia. Universidade Estadual de Maringá. Maringá, Paraná, CEP: 87020-900, Brazil
| | - Flávia K Tobaldini-Valério
- Programa de Pós-graduação em Biociências e Fisiopatologia. Universidade Estadual de Maringá. Maringá, Paraná, CEP: 87020-900, Brazil
| | - Isis Rg Capoci
- Departamento de Análises Clínicas e Biomedicina. Laboratório Micologia Médica. Universidade Estadual de Maringá. Maringá, Paraná, CEP: 87020-900, Brazil.,Programa de Pós-graduação em Biociências e Fisiopatologia. Universidade Estadual de Maringá. Maringá, Paraná, CEP: 87020-900, Brazil
| | - Daniella R Faria
- Programa de Pós-graduação em Biociências e Fisiopatologia. Universidade Estadual de Maringá. Maringá, Paraná, CEP: 87020-900, Brazil
| | - Karina M Sakita
- Programa de Pós-graduação em Biociências e Fisiopatologia. Universidade Estadual de Maringá. Maringá, Paraná, CEP: 87020-900, Brazil
| | - Glaucia S Arita
- Programa de Pós-graduação em Biociências e Fisiopatologia. Universidade Estadual de Maringá. Maringá, Paraná, CEP: 87020-900, Brazil
| | - Melyssa Negri
- Departamento de Análises Clínicas e Biomedicina. Laboratório Micologia Médica. Universidade Estadual de Maringá. Maringá, Paraná, CEP: 87020-900, Brazil
| | - Érika S Kioshima
- Departamento de Análises Clínicas e Biomedicina. Laboratório Micologia Médica. Universidade Estadual de Maringá. Maringá, Paraná, CEP: 87020-900, Brazil.,Programa de Pós-graduação em Biociências e Fisiopatologia. Universidade Estadual de Maringá. Maringá, Paraná, CEP: 87020-900, Brazil
| | - Terezinha Ie Svidzinski
- Departamento de Análises Clínicas e Biomedicina. Laboratório Micologia Médica. Universidade Estadual de Maringá. Maringá, Paraná, CEP: 87020-900, Brazil.,Programa de Pós-graduação em Biociências e Fisiopatologia. Universidade Estadual de Maringá. Maringá, Paraná, CEP: 87020-900, Brazil
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Fidel PL, Yano J, Esher SK, Noverr MC. Applying the Host-Microbe Damage Response Framework to Candida Pathogenesis: Current and Prospective Strategies to Reduce Damage. J Fungi (Basel) 2020; 6:jof6010035. [PMID: 32168864 PMCID: PMC7151217 DOI: 10.3390/jof6010035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2020] [Revised: 03/05/2020] [Accepted: 03/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Disease is a complex outcome that can occur as a result of pathogen-mediated damage, host-mediated damage or both. This has led to the revolutionary concept of the damage response framework (DRF) that defines microbial virulence as a function of host immunity. The DRF outlines six scenarios (classes) of host damage or beneficial outcomes, depending on the microbe and the strength of the immune response. Candida albicans is uniquely adapted to its human host and can exist as either a commensal, colonizing various anatomical sites without causing notable damage, or as a pathogen, with the ability to cause a diverse array of diseases, ranging from mucosal to invasive systemic infections that result in varying levels of microbe-mediated and/or host-mediated damage. We recently categorized six different forms of candidiasis (oropharyngeal, hematogenous, intra-abdominal, gastrointestinal, denture stomatitis, and vulvovaginitis) into independent DRF classes, supporting a contemporary view of unique mechanisms of pathogenesis for these Candida infections. In this review, we summarize the evidence for the pathogenesis of these various forms of candidiasis in the context of the DRF with the further intent to provide insights into strategies to achieve a level of host response or outcome otherwise, that limits host damage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul L. Fidel
- Center of Excellence in Oral and Craniofacial Biology, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center School of Dentistry, New Orleans, LA 70119, USA;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-504-941-8425
| | - Junko Yano
- Center of Excellence in Oral and Craniofacial Biology, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center School of Dentistry, New Orleans, LA 70119, USA;
| | - Shannon K. Esher
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA; (S.K.E.); (M.C.N.)
| | - Mairi C. Noverr
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA; (S.K.E.); (M.C.N.)
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32
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Willems HME, Ahmed SS, Liu J, Xu Z, Peters BM. Vulvovaginal Candidiasis: A Current Understanding and Burning Questions. J Fungi (Basel) 2020; 6:jof6010027. [PMID: 32106438 PMCID: PMC7151053 DOI: 10.3390/jof6010027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 132] [Impact Index Per Article: 33.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2020] [Revised: 02/17/2020] [Accepted: 02/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Candida albicans, along with other closely related Candida species, are the primary causative agents of vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC)-a multifactorial infectious disease of the lower female reproductive tract resulting in pathologic inflammation. Unlike other forms of candidiasis, VVC is a disease of immunocompetent and otherwise healthy women, most predominant during their child-bearing years. While VVC is non-lethal, its high global incidence and profound negative impact on quality-of-life necessitates further understanding of the host and fungal factors that drive disease pathogenesis. In this review, we cover the current state of our understanding of the epidemiology, host response, fungal pathogenicity mechanisms, impact of the microbiome, and novel approaches to treatment of this most prevalent human candidal infection. We also offer insight into the latest advancements in the VVC field and identify important questions that still remain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hubertine M. E. Willems
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Translational Science, College of Pharmacy, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN 38163, USA; (H.M.E.W.); (J.L.); (Z.X.)
| | - Salman S. Ahmed
- School of Food Science and Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510641, China;
| | - Junyan Liu
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Translational Science, College of Pharmacy, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN 38163, USA; (H.M.E.W.); (J.L.); (Z.X.)
| | - Zhenbo Xu
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Translational Science, College of Pharmacy, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN 38163, USA; (H.M.E.W.); (J.L.); (Z.X.)
- School of Food Science and Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510641, China;
| | - Brian M. Peters
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Translational Science, College of Pharmacy, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN 38163, USA; (H.M.E.W.); (J.L.); (Z.X.)
- Correspondence:
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Bignoumba M, Onanga R, Bivigou Mboumba B, Gafou A, Mouanga Ndzime Y, Lendamba RW, Mbombe Moghoa K, Kassa Kassa RF. Vulvovaginal candidiasis among symptomatic women of childbearing age attended at a Medical Analysis Laboratory in Franceville, Gabon. J Mycol Med 2019; 29:317-319. [PMID: 31481349 DOI: 10.1016/j.mycmed.2019.100895] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2019] [Revised: 08/20/2019] [Accepted: 08/22/2019] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) is one of the most common lower genital tract infections in women; this unpleasant and extremely embarrassing pathology is one of the main reasons for gynaecological consultation. In Gabon, the prevalence of VVC remains poorly described even though VVC is known to be the leading gynaecological condition in several countries. This retrospective cross-sectional study sought to assess the prevalence of VVC among symptomatic women in southeastern Gabon. METHODS Clinical samples were collected from patients suspected to have VVC during a 2-year period (from January 2016 to December 2017). Gram staining of vaginal smears provided indications of vaginal flora and confirmed the presence of yeast. Sabouraud-chloramphenicol and chromID Candida media were used to isolate yeast, and species identification was performed using morphological tests and the Vitek 2 Compact automated system. RESULTS For the 873 patients included in this study, the prevalence of VVC was 28.52%. Eleven Candida species were identified, with greater representation of Candidaalbicans (82.73%) than of Non C. albicanscandida (NCAC) (17.27%), which were distributed as follows: Candidafamata (4.02%), Candida spp. (3.61%), Candidarugosa (3.21%), Candidalipolytica (1.61%), Candidaparapsilosis (1.61%), Candidaglabrata (1.21%), Candidatropicalis (0.80%), Candidakrusei (0.40%), Candidadubliniensis (0.40%), and Candidasphaerica (0.40%). CONCLUSION This study offers the first estimation of VVC among Gabonese women in childbearing age with the symptoms. It showed that VVC is very common in Gabon. C. albicans as the most commonly represented species.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Bignoumba
- Centre International de Recherches Médicales de Franceville, BP 769, Franceville, Gabon.
| | - R Onanga
- Centre International de Recherches Médicales de Franceville, BP 769, Franceville, Gabon
| | - B Bivigou Mboumba
- Centre International de Recherches Médicales de Franceville, BP 769, Franceville, Gabon
| | - A Gafou
- Centre International de Recherches Médicales de Franceville, BP 769, Franceville, Gabon
| | - Y Mouanga Ndzime
- Centre International de Recherches Médicales de Franceville, BP 769, Franceville, Gabon
| | - R W Lendamba
- Centre International de Recherches Médicales de Franceville, BP 769, Franceville, Gabon
| | - K Mbombe Moghoa
- Université des sciences et techniques et Masuku, BP 943,Franceville, Gabon
| | - R F Kassa Kassa
- Centre International de Recherches Médicales de Franceville, BP 769, Franceville, Gabon
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Lírio J, Giraldo PC, Amaral RL, Sarmento ACA, Costa APF, Gonçalves AK. Antifungal (oral and vaginal) therapy for recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis: a systematic review protocol. BMJ Open 2019; 9:e027489. [PMID: 31122991 PMCID: PMC6537984 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2018-027489] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2018] [Accepted: 03/11/2019] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) is frequent in women worldwide and usually responds rapidly to topical or oral antifungal therapy. However, some women develop recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis (RVVC), which is arbitrarily defined as four or more episodes every year. RVVC is a debilitating, long-term condition that can severely affect the quality of life of women. Most VVC is diagnosed and treated empirically and women frequently self-treat with over-the-counter medications that could contribute to an increase in the antifungal resistance. The effective treatment of RVVC has been a challenge in daily clinical practice. This review aims to assess the efficacy of antifungal agents administered orally or intravaginally for the treatment of RVVC, in order to define clinical practices that will impact on the reduction of the morbidity and antifungal resistance. METHODS AND ANALYSIS A comprehensive search of the following databases will be carried out: PubMed, Embase, Scopus, Web of Science, Scientific Electronic Library Online (SciELO), the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), Biblioteca Virtual em Saúde (Virtual Health Library)/Biblioteca Regional de Medicina (Regional Library of Medicine) (BVS/BIREME), Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL) and in the clinical trials databases (www.trialscentral.org; www.controlled-trials.com; www.clinicaltrials.gov). The risk of bias will be assessed according to the Cochrane Risk of Bias tool. We will perform data synthesis using the Review Manager (RevMan) software V.5.2.3. To assess heterogeneity, we will compute the I2 statistic. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION This study will be a review of published data and it is not necessary to obtain ethical approval. Findings of this systematic review will be published in a peer-reviewed journal. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER CRD42018093817.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juliana Lírio
- Obstetrics and Gynecology, Universidade Estadual de Campinas, Campinas, SP, Brazil
| | - Paulo Cesar Giraldo
- Obstetrics and Gynecology, Universidade Estadual de Campinas, Campinas, Brazil
| | - Rose Luce Amaral
- Obstetrics and Gynecology, Universidade Estadual de Campinas, Campinas, Brazil
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Yokoyama H, Nagao A, Watanabe S, Honjo J. Incidence and risk of vaginal candidiasis associated with sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors in real-world practice for women with type 2 diabetes. J Diabetes Investig 2019; 10:439-445. [PMID: 30136398 PMCID: PMC6400166 DOI: 10.1111/jdi.12912] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2018] [Revised: 08/08/2018] [Accepted: 08/12/2018] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
AIMS/INTRODUCTION The prevalence and risk of vaginal candidiasis before and after initiating sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors, although some clinical trials have been carried out, have not been adequately shown in real-world practice. We investigated the incidence of vaginal Candida colonization and symptomatic vaginitis, and the clinical risk factors including diabetic microvascular complications. MATERIALS AND METHODS The participants were 114 women with type 2 diabetes who were free of vaginitis symptoms and started SGLT2 inhibitors. Vaginal candidiasis tests through self-administered swabs were carried out at baseline, 6 and 12 months. RESULTS Before starting SGLT2 inhibitors, 17 participants (14.9%) had positive vaginal Candida colonization. Younger age and the presence of microangiopathy were significantly associated with the positive colonization in multivariate analysis. Among all participants, 23 (20.2%, 8 because of vaginitis and 15 for other reasons) discontinued SGLT2 inhibitors before reaching the 6-month test. Of 65 participants who were negative for Candida at baseline and received the 6-month test, 24 (36.9%) converted to a positive culture, and multivariate analysis showed older age as an independent risk for developing Candida colonization. There were 18 participants (15.8%) who developed symptomatic vaginitis, and they showed similar characteristics to the 24 participants. Most of those with negative cultures at 6 months showed negative results at 12 months and vice versa. CONCLUSIONS The rates of developing positive colonization and symptomatic vaginitis after starting SGLT2 inhibitors appear to be higher in real-world practice than the rates of 31% and 5-10% in clinical trials, respectively. Risk factors of vaginal Candida colonization might be different before and after taking SGLT2 inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ami Nagao
- Internal MedicineJiyugaoka Medical ClinicObihiroJapan
| | | | - Jun Honjo
- Internal MedicineJiyugaoka Medical ClinicObihiroJapan
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36
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Kočendová J, Vaňková E, Volejníková A, Nešuta O, Buděšínský M, Socha O, Hájek M, Hadravová R, Čeřovský V. Antifungal activity of analogues of antimicrobial peptides isolated from bee venoms against vulvovaginal Candida spp. FEMS Yeast Res 2019; 19:5315757. [DOI: 10.1093/femsyr/foz013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2018] [Accepted: 02/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
ABSTRACT
Candida albicans is the main causative agent of vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC), a common mycosis in women, relapses of which are difficult to manage due to biofilm formation. This study aimed at developing novel non-toxic compounds active against Candida spp. biofilms. We synthesised analogues of natural antifungal peptides LL-III (LL-III/43) and HAL-2 (peptide VIII) originally isolated from bee venoms and elucidated their structures by nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. The haemolytic, cytotoxic, antifungal and anti-biofilm activities of LL-III/43 and peptide VIII were then tested. LL-III/43 and VIII showed moderate cytotoxicity to HUVEC-2 cells and had comparable inhibitory activity against C. albicans and non-albicans spp. The lowest minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC90) of LL-III/43 was observed towards Candida tropicalis (0.8 µM). That was 8-fold lower than that of antimycotic amphotericin B. Both peptides can be used to inhibit Candida spp. bio film f ormation. Biofilm inhibitory concentrations (BIC50) ranged from 0.9 to 58.6 µM and biofilm eradication concentrations (BEC50) for almost all tested Candida spp. strains ranged from 12.8 to 200 µM. Als o pro ven were the peptides’ abilities to reduce the area colonised by biofilms , inhibit hyphae formation and permeabilise cell membranes in biofil ms . LL-III/43 and VIII are promising candidates for further development as therapeutics against VVC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jitka Kočendová
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Flemingovo náměstí 2, 166 10, Prague 6, Czech Republic
| | - Eva Vaňková
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Flemingovo náměstí 2, 166 10, Prague 6, Czech Republic
- University of Chemistry and Technology Prague, Technická 5, 166 28, Prague 6, Czech Republic
| | - Andrea Volejníková
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Flemingovo náměstí 2, 166 10, Prague 6, Czech Republic
| | - Ondřej Nešuta
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Flemingovo náměstí 2, 166 10, Prague 6, Czech Republic
| | - Miloš Buděšínský
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Flemingovo náměstí 2, 166 10, Prague 6, Czech Republic
| | - Ondřej Socha
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Flemingovo náměstí 2, 166 10, Prague 6, Czech Republic
- Faculty of Mathematics and Physics, Charles University, Ke Karlovu 3, 121 16, Prague 2, Czech Republic
| | - Miroslav Hájek
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Flemingovo náměstí 2, 166 10, Prague 6, Czech Republic
| | - Romana Hadravová
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Flemingovo náměstí 2, 166 10, Prague 6, Czech Republic
| | - Václav Čeřovský
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Flemingovo náměstí 2, 166 10, Prague 6, Czech Republic
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De Bernardis F, Graziani S, Tirelli F, Antonopoulou S. Candida vaginitis: virulence, host response and vaccine prospects. Med Mycol 2018. [PMID: 29538739 DOI: 10.1093/mmy/myx139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Vulvovaginal candidiasis is a common mucosal infection affecting a large proportion of women with some of them affected by recurrent often intractable forms of the disease. Thus, there is an increasing interest in understanding the pathogenesis of this disease. The aim of our work was to characterize, in animal models of vaginal candidiasis, the components of the host-fungus interaction at the mucosal level.The evidence of an immune response in the vaginal compartment was very encouraging to identify the proper targets for new strategies for vaccination or immunotherapy of vaginal candidiasis. Aspartyl-proteinase (Sap2), which is an important immunodominant antigens and virulence factors of C.albicans acting in mucosal infections, was assembled with virosomes and a vaccine PEV7 was obtained. The results obtained in the mouse model and in the clinical trial conducted by Pevion on women have evidenced that the vaccine PEV7, intravaginally administered, has an encouraging therapeutic potential for the treatment of recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis. This opens the way to a modality for anti-Candida protection at mucosal level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Flavia De Bernardis
- Department. of Infectious Diseases, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Sofia Graziani
- Department. of Infectious Diseases, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Flavio Tirelli
- Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Largo F. Vito, 1, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Stavroula Antonopoulou
- Departmentt. of Clinical Microbiology, G. Gennimatas General Hospital, 154 Avenue Mesogeion, 11527, Athens, Greece.,Department of Genetics and Biotechnology, Faculty of Biology, National Kapodistrian University of Athens, Avenue oulof Palme, Ano Ilisia 15784, Athens, Greece
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Comparative Analysis of the Capacity of the Candida Species To Elicit Vaginal Immunopathology. Infect Immun 2018; 86:IAI.00527-18. [PMID: 30249743 DOI: 10.1128/iai.00527-18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2018] [Accepted: 09/12/2018] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The human fungal pathogen Candida albicans is the major etiological agent of vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC). Despite this fact, other non-albicans Candida (NAC) species have frequently been reported, as well. Despite their presence in the vaginal environment, little is known about their capacities to elicit immune responses classically associated with C. albicans-mediated immunopathology, including neutrophil recruitment and proinflammatory cytokine signaling. Therefore, using a combination of in vitro and in vivo approaches, we undertook a comparative analysis to determine whether a representative panel of NAC species could colonize, induce immunopathological markers, or cause damage at the vaginal mucosa. Using a murine model of VVC, C. albicans was found to induce robust immunopathology (neutrophils and interleukin 1β [IL-1β]) and elicit mucosal damage. However, all the NAC species tested (including C. dubliniensis, C. tropicalis, C. parapsilosis, C. krusei, C. glabrata, and C. auris) induced significantly less damage and neutrophil recruitment than C. albicans, despite achieving similar early colonization levels. These results largely correlated with a notable lack of ability by the NAC species (including C. dubliniensis and C. tropicalis) to form hyphae both in vitro and in vivo Furthermore, both C. dubliniensis and C. tropicalis induced significantly less expression of the ECE1 gene encoding candidalysin, a key fungal virulence determinant driving VVC immunopathology. In order to determine the relative capacities of these species to elicit inflammasome-dependent IL-1β release, both wild-type and NLRP3-/- THP-1 cells were challenged in vitro While most species tested elicited only modest amounts of IL-1β, challenge with C. albicans led to significantly elevated levels that were largely NLRP3 dependent. Collectively, our findings demonstrate that although NAC species are increasingly reported as causative agents of VVC, C. albicans appears to be exceedingly vaginopathogenic, exhibiting robust immunopathology, hypha formation, and candidalysin expression. Thus, this study provides mechanistic insight into why C. albicans is overwhelmingly the major pathogen reported during VVC.
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Isolation of Different Species of Candida in Patients with Vulvovaginal Candidiasis from Damavand, Iran. ARCHIVES OF CLINICAL INFECTIOUS DISEASES 2018. [DOI: 10.5812/archcid.59291] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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40
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Naeimi B, Mirhendi H, Khamisipour G, Sadeghzadeh F, Ahmadi B. Candida africana in recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis (RVVC) patients: frequency and phenotypic and genotypic characteristics. J Med Microbiol 2018; 67:1601-1607. [PMID: 30248002 DOI: 10.1099/jmm.0.000834] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Up to 75 % of all women develop vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC), with symptoms such as vulvar erythema, pruritus and abnormal vaginal discharge. Despite the global distribution of Candida africana, its role in recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis (RVVC) is still unclear and requires further investigation. Here, we report on the frequency of C. africana among clinical isolates from patients with RVVC in Bushehr in southern Iran. METHODOLOGY Isolated Candida strains were identified by ITS-PCR-RFLP. Hyphal wall protein 1 (HWP1) was amplified to differentiate C. africana and the resulting sequences were subjected to phylogenetic analyses with a view to identifying similarities and differences in nucleotides. RESULTS Ten out of 119 strains originally identified as C. albicans turned out to be C. africana. Pairwise nucleotide alignment of HWP1 DNA sequences showed 100 % similarity between C. africana strains. Inter-species variation between Iranian C. africana HWP1 sequences and the only three available C. africana type sequences in GenBank revealed 99.7-100 % nucleotide similarity. Phylogenetic analysis of the HWP1 DNA sequences of 10 Iranian C. africana isolates, the 3 C. africana sequences available in GenBank and 2 representative Iranian C. albicans sequences revealed that all 11 Iranian C. africana strains formed a well-supported cluster separated from the remaining C. africana. CONCLUSION In our sample, C. africana was only isolated from 7.8 % of the patients with RVVC. While size polymorphisms in HPW1 genes allowed us to differentiate C. africana from C. albicans, no evidence of sequence variation within the Iranian C. africana isolates was observed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Behrouz Naeimi
- 1The Persian Gulf Marine Biotechnology Research Center, The Persian Gulf Biomedical Research Institute, Bushehr University of Medical Sciences, Bushehr, Iran
| | - Hossein Mirhendi
- 2Departments of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Gholamreza Khamisipour
- 3Department of Hematology, Faculty of Allied Medicine, Bushehr University of Medical Sciences, Bushehr, Iran
| | - Farzaneh Sadeghzadeh
- 4Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Paramedical, Bushehr University of Medical Sciences, Bushehr, Iran
| | - Bahram Ahmadi
- 4Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Paramedical, Bushehr University of Medical Sciences, Bushehr, Iran
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Sobel JD, Sobel R. Current treatment options for vulvovaginal candidiasis caused by azole-resistant Candida species. Expert Opin Pharmacother 2018; 19:971-977. [PMID: 29932786 DOI: 10.1080/14656566.2018.1476490] [Citation(s) in RCA: 93] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Clinicians are increasingly challenged by patients with refractory vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) caused by azole-resistant Candida species. Fluconazole resistant C.albicans is a growing and perplexing problem following years of indiscriminate drug prescription and unnecessary drug exposure and for which there are few therapeutic alternatives. Regrettably, although the azole class of drugs has expanded, new classes of antifungal drugs have not been forthcoming, limiting effective treatment options in patients with azole resistant Candida vaginitis. AREAS COVERED This review covers published data on epidemiology, pathophysiology and treatment options for women with azole-resistant refractory VVC. EXPERT OPINION Fluconazole resistant C.albicans adds to the challenge of azole resistant non-albicans Candida spp. Both issues follow years of indiscriminate drug prescription and unnecessary fluconazole exposure. Although an understanding of azole resistance in yeast has been established, this knowledge has not translated into useful therapeutic advantage. Treatment options for such women with refractory symptoms are extremely limited. New therapeutic options and strategies are urgently needed to meet this challenge of azole drug resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- J D Sobel
- a Department of Internal Medicine , Wayne State University School of Medicine , Detroit , MI , USA
| | - R Sobel
- b Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology , Jefferson Medical College , Philadelphia , PA , USA
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42
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Is multiple-site colonization with Candida spp. related to inadequate response to individualized fluconazole maintenance therapy in women with recurrent Candida vulvovaginitis? Diagn Microbiol Infect Dis 2018; 92:226-229. [PMID: 30293562 DOI: 10.1016/j.diagmicrobio.2018.05.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2017] [Revised: 05/20/2018] [Accepted: 05/29/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Although most women on fluconazole maintenance therapy for recurrent vulvovaginal candidosis experience a substantial improvement in quality of life, some do not respond to therapy. Is candidal colonization of extragenital sites related to suboptimal response to maintenance therapy? PATIENTS AND METHODS Women included in a multicenter follow-up study (ReCiDiF) were evaluated for clinical signs and presence of yeasts in nose, mouth, anus, perineum, and urine. Candida was diagnosed by positive microscopy, confirmed by positive culture or polymerase chain reaction. After treatment, women were divided into groups according to their response to a fluconazole maintenance regimen (optimal, suboptimal, and nonresponders). RESULTS The most frequent extravaginal Candida spp. were detected in urine (79.5%), perineum (78.6%), and anus (56.4%). Carriers of Candida in the mouth were more likely to have it in the anus (OR 3.2; 95% CI 1.4-7.7). Colonization in anus (OR 3.3; 95% CI 1.3-8.1) or in multiple extravaginal sites (OR 3.0; CI95% 1.2-7.4) was related to nonresponse to therapy. Candidal carriage in the anus did not increase anal and perianal symptoms. CONCLUSION Women with anal carriage and multiple-site candidal colonization are less likely to respond to individualized decreasing dose fluconazole therapy.
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Abstract
OBJECTIVE Vaginitis may be diagnosed as bacterial vaginosis, vulvovaginal candidiasis, trichomoniasis, or coinfection. A new molecular test assays the vaginal microbiome and organisms that cause three common infections. The objective of the trial was to evaluate the clinical accuracy of the investigational test for vaginal swabs collected by patients (self) or clinicians. The primary and secondary outcomes were to compare the investigational test with reference methods for the three most common causes of vaginitis and compare clinician-collected with self-collected swabs. METHODS We conducted a cross-sectional study in which women with symptoms of vaginitis were recruited at ten clinical centers and consented to the investigation between May and September 2015. The woman collected a vaginal swab, sheathed, and then handed it to the clinician. These swabs were to evaluate how self-collected swabs compared with clinician-collected swabs. The clinician collected an investigational test swab and reference test swabs. From 1,740 symptomatic patients, clinician-collected and self-collected vaginal swabs were evaluated by the molecular test and six tests. The reference methods for bacterial vaginosis were Nugent's score and Amsel's criteria for intermediate Nugent results. The reference methods for Candida infection were isolation of any potential Candida microorganisms from inoculation of two culture media: chromogenic and Sabouraud agar and sequencing. The reference methods for trichomoniasis were wet mount and culture. RESULTS For clinician-collected swabs, by reference methods, bacterial vaginosis was diagnosed in 56.5%, vaginal candidiasis in 32.8%, trichomoniasis in 8%, and none of the three infections in 24% with a coinfection rate of 20%. The investigational test sensitivity was 90.5% (95% confidence interval [CI] 88.3-92.2%) and specificity was 85.8% (95% CI 83.0-88.3%) for bacterial vaginosis. The investigational test sensitivity was 90.9% (95% CI 88.1-93.1%) and specificity was 94.1% (95% CI 92.6-95.4%) for the Candida group. Sensitivity for Candida glabrata was 75.9% (95% CI 57.9-87.8%) and specificity was 99.7% (95% CI 99.3-99.9%). Investigational test sensitivity was 93.1% (95% CI 87.4-96.3%) and specificity was 99.3% (95% CI 98.7-99.6%) for trichomoniasis. Results from self-collected swabs were similar to clinician-collected swabs. CONCLUSION A molecular-based test using vaginal swabs collected by clinicians or patients can accurately diagnose most common bacterial, fungal, and protozoan causes of vaginitis. Women and their clinicians seeking accurate diagnosis and appropriate selection of efficacious treatment for symptoms of vaginitis might benefit from this molecular test.
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Emergence of Candida glabrata in vulvovaginal candidiasis should be attributed to selective pressure or virulence ability? Arch Gynecol Obstet 2017; 296:519-526. [DOI: 10.1007/s00404-017-4465-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2017] [Accepted: 07/12/2017] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
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Clinical and Mycological Study of Vulvovaginal Candidiasis (VVC); Identification of Clinical Isolates by Polymerase Chain Reaction-Fragment Size Polymorphyim (PCR-FSP) Technique. ARCHIVES OF CLINICAL INFECTIOUS DISEASES 2017. [DOI: 10.5812/archcid.62761] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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Cauchie M, Desmet S, Lagrou K. Candida and its dual lifestyle as a commensal and a pathogen. Res Microbiol 2017; 168:802-810. [PMID: 28263903 DOI: 10.1016/j.resmic.2017.02.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2016] [Revised: 02/14/2017] [Accepted: 02/16/2017] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Candida spp. are part of the normal vaginal microflora in 20-30% of healthy women. However, if the balance between these yeasts and the host is disturbed, Candida spp. can cause vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC), with Candida albicans being the major causative agent. Different studies have been performed in order to better understand Candida's dual lifestyle in the vagina. The potential of C. albicans to switch from the yeast cell morphology to its hyphal form is considered a key element in VVC pathogenesis. Candida spp. also express other virulence factors, such as hydrolytic extracellular enzymes and heat shock proteins and can form biofilms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mathieu Cauchie
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, University Hospitals Leuven, Herestraat 49, 3000 Leuven, Belgium.
| | - Stefanie Desmet
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, University Hospitals Leuven, Herestraat 49, 3000 Leuven, Belgium; Department of Microbiology and Immunology, KU Leuven - University of Leuven, Herestraat 49, 3000 Leuven, Belgium.
| | - Katrien Lagrou
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, University Hospitals Leuven, Herestraat 49, 3000 Leuven, Belgium; Department of Microbiology and Immunology, KU Leuven - University of Leuven, Herestraat 49, 3000 Leuven, Belgium.
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Vyoral D, Jiri Petrak. Therapeutic potential of hepcidin − the master regulator of iron metabolism. Pharmacol Res 2017; 115:242-254. [DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2016.11.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2016] [Revised: 11/03/2016] [Accepted: 11/07/2016] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
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Ebrahimy F, Dolatian M, Moatar F, Majd HA. Comparison of the therapeutic effects of Garcin(®) and fluconazole on Candida vaginitis. Singapore Med J 2016; 56:567-72. [PMID: 26512149 DOI: 10.11622/smedj.2015153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION This study aimed to determine and compare the effects of garlic tablets (Garcin(®)) and fluconazole on Candida vaginitis in women who presented to a health centre in Koohdasht, Iran, from August 2011 to March 2012. METHODS The clinical trial was conducted on 110 married women (aged 18-44 years) who had complaints of itching or a burning sensation in the vaginal area. Candida vaginitis was diagnosed by pH measurement of vaginal secretions, direct microscopic evaluation and Sabouraud dextrose agar cultures of the vaginal discharge. On confirmation of diagnosis, the patients were randomly divided into two groups (n = 55). One group received 1,500 mg of Garcin tablets daily and the other received fluconazole tablets 150 mg daily, over a period of seven days. Four to seven days after the completion of treatment, patients were examined for treatment response and possible side effects. RESULTS Complaints related to the disease improved by about 44% in the Garcin group and 63.5% in the fluconazole group (p < 0.05). The overall symptoms of the disease (i.e. redness of vulva and vagina, cheesy discharge, pustulopapular lesions and abnormal cervix) improved by about 60% in the Garcin group and 71.2% in the fluconazole group (p > 0.05). Results of microscopic evaluation and vaginal discharge culture showed significant differences before and after intervention in both groups (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION The present study shows that Garcin tablets could be a suitable alternative to fluconazole for the treatment of Candida vaginitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Farzaneh Ebrahimy
- Department of Midwifery and Reproductive Health, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mahrokh Dolatian
- Department of Midwifery and Reproductive Health, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fariborz Moatar
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Hamid Alavi Majd
- Department of Biostatistics, Faculty of Paramedicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Sobel JD. Recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2016; 214:15-21. [PMID: 26164695 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2015.06.067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 274] [Impact Index Per Article: 34.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2015] [Revised: 06/29/2015] [Accepted: 06/30/2015] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
Recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis (RVVC) is a common cause of significant morbidity in women in all strata of society affecting millions of women worldwide. Previously, RVVC occurrence was limited by onset of menopause but the widespread use of hormone replacement therapy has extended the at-risk period. Candida albicans remains the dominant species responsible for RVVC, however optimal management of RVVC requires species determination and effective treatment measures are best if species-specific. Considerable progress has been made in understanding risk factors that determine susceptibility to RVVC, particularly genetic factors, as well as new insights into normal vaginal defense immune mechanisms and their aberrations in RVVC. While effective control of RVVC is achievable with the use of fluconazole maintenance suppressive therapy, cure of RVVC remains elusive especially in this era of fluconazole drug resistance. Vaccine development remains a critical challenge and need.
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