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Joseph RJ, Ser HL, Kuai YH, Tan LTH, Arasoo VJT, Letchumanan V, Wang L, Pusparajah P, Goh BH, Ab Mutalib NS, Chan KG, Lee LH. Finding a Balance in the Vaginal Microbiome: How Do We Treat and Prevent the Occurrence of Bacterial Vaginosis? Antibiotics (Basel) 2021; 10:719. [PMID: 34203908 PMCID: PMC8232816 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics10060719] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2021] [Revised: 05/27/2021] [Accepted: 06/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Bacterial vaginosis (BV) has been reported in one-third of women worldwide at different life stages, due to the complex balance in the ecology of the vaginal microbiota. It is a common cause of abnormal vaginal discharge and is associated with other health issues. Since the first description of anaerobic microbes associated with BV like Gardnerella vaginalis in the 1950s, researchers have stepped up the game by incorporating advanced molecular tools to monitor and evaluate the extent of dysbiosis within the vaginal microbiome, particularly on how specific microbial population changes compared to a healthy state. Moreover, treatment failure and BV recurrence rate remain high despite the standard antibiotic treatment. Consequently, researchers have been probing into alternative or adjunct treatments, including probiotics or even vaginal microbiota transplants, to ensure successful treatment outcomes and reduce the colonization by pathogenic microbes of the female reproductive tract. The current review summarizes the latest findings in probiotics use for BV and explores the potential of vaginal microbiota transplants in restoring vaginal health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca Jane Joseph
- Novel Bacteria and Drug Discovery Research Group (NBDD), Microbes and Bioresource Research Strength (MBRS), Jeffrey Cheah School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Monash University Malaysia, Bandar Sunway 47500, Malaysia; (R.J.J.); (H.-L.S.); (Y.-H.K.); (L.T.-H.T.); (V.L.); (P.P.); (N.-S.A.M.)
| | - Hooi-Leng Ser
- Novel Bacteria and Drug Discovery Research Group (NBDD), Microbes and Bioresource Research Strength (MBRS), Jeffrey Cheah School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Monash University Malaysia, Bandar Sunway 47500, Malaysia; (R.J.J.); (H.-L.S.); (Y.-H.K.); (L.T.-H.T.); (V.L.); (P.P.); (N.-S.A.M.)
| | - Yi-He Kuai
- Novel Bacteria and Drug Discovery Research Group (NBDD), Microbes and Bioresource Research Strength (MBRS), Jeffrey Cheah School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Monash University Malaysia, Bandar Sunway 47500, Malaysia; (R.J.J.); (H.-L.S.); (Y.-H.K.); (L.T.-H.T.); (V.L.); (P.P.); (N.-S.A.M.)
| | - Loh Teng-Hern Tan
- Novel Bacteria and Drug Discovery Research Group (NBDD), Microbes and Bioresource Research Strength (MBRS), Jeffrey Cheah School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Monash University Malaysia, Bandar Sunway 47500, Malaysia; (R.J.J.); (H.-L.S.); (Y.-H.K.); (L.T.-H.T.); (V.L.); (P.P.); (N.-S.A.M.)
- Clinical School Johor Bahru, Jeffrey Cheah School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Monash University Malaysia, Johor Bahru 80100, Malaysia;
| | | | - Vengadesh Letchumanan
- Novel Bacteria and Drug Discovery Research Group (NBDD), Microbes and Bioresource Research Strength (MBRS), Jeffrey Cheah School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Monash University Malaysia, Bandar Sunway 47500, Malaysia; (R.J.J.); (H.-L.S.); (Y.-H.K.); (L.T.-H.T.); (V.L.); (P.P.); (N.-S.A.M.)
| | - Lijing Wang
- Vascular Biology Research Institute, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou 510006, China;
| | - Priyia Pusparajah
- Novel Bacteria and Drug Discovery Research Group (NBDD), Microbes and Bioresource Research Strength (MBRS), Jeffrey Cheah School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Monash University Malaysia, Bandar Sunway 47500, Malaysia; (R.J.J.); (H.-L.S.); (Y.-H.K.); (L.T.-H.T.); (V.L.); (P.P.); (N.-S.A.M.)
| | - Bey-Hing Goh
- Biofunctional Molecule Exploratory Research Group (BMEX), School of Pharmacy, Monash University Malaysia, Bandar Sunway 47500, Malaysia;
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Nurul-Syakima Ab Mutalib
- Novel Bacteria and Drug Discovery Research Group (NBDD), Microbes and Bioresource Research Strength (MBRS), Jeffrey Cheah School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Monash University Malaysia, Bandar Sunway 47500, Malaysia; (R.J.J.); (H.-L.S.); (Y.-H.K.); (L.T.-H.T.); (V.L.); (P.P.); (N.-S.A.M.)
- UKM Medical Molecular Biology Institute (UMBI), UKM Medical Centre, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur 56000, Malaysia
| | - Kok-Gan Chan
- Division of Genetics and Molecular Biology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia
- International Genome Centre, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, China
| | - Learn-Han Lee
- Novel Bacteria and Drug Discovery Research Group (NBDD), Microbes and Bioresource Research Strength (MBRS), Jeffrey Cheah School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Monash University Malaysia, Bandar Sunway 47500, Malaysia; (R.J.J.); (H.-L.S.); (Y.-H.K.); (L.T.-H.T.); (V.L.); (P.P.); (N.-S.A.M.)
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V Majigo M, Kashindye P, Mtulo Z, Joachim A. Bacterial vaginosis, the leading cause of genital discharge among women presenting with vaginal infection in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. Afr Health Sci 2021; 21:531-537. [PMID: 34795705 PMCID: PMC8568229 DOI: 10.4314/ahs.v21i2.7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Pathological vaginal discharge is a common complaint of women in reproductive age worldwide caused by various agents. The prevalence and etiologic agents vary depending on the population studied. Management of vaginal discharge in low-income countries, typically depend on the syndromic approach, which limits understanding the specific causative agents. We determined the proportion of bacterial vaginosis, candidiasis, and trichomoniasis among women with vaginal discharge at a regional referral hospital in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. Methods We conducted a cross-sectional study between June and August of 2017 among nonpregnant women at Amana Regional Referral Hospital. Experienced staff performed physical examination to establish a clinical diagnosis, and collection of the high vaginal swab for microscopic examination. Descriptive statistics were performed to assess the characteristics of study participants and the proportion of vaginal infections. Results A total of 196 samples were collected, of all, 128 (65.3%) had either bacterial vaginosis, candidiasis, or trichomoniasis. Bacterial vaginosis was the leading infection at 33.2%, followed by candidiasis (19.4%) and trichomoniasis (13.3%). Laboratory confirmed vaginal infection were generally found more in age below 25, unmarried, and those employed or petty business. Conclusion The proportion of bacterial vaginosis in women with vaginal discharge was relatively higher than others, and the presence of vaginal infection relate to socio-demographic characteristics. Further advanced studies are needed to understand the potential role of aetiologic agents in causing vaginal infections.
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Prabhu A, Singhal H, Giri Nandagopal MS, Kulal R, Peralam Yegneswaran P, Mani NK. Knitting Thread Devices: Detecting Candida albicans Using Napkins and Tampons. ACS OMEGA 2021; 6:12667-12675. [PMID: 34056418 PMCID: PMC8154238 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.1c00806] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2021] [Accepted: 04/22/2021] [Indexed: 05/14/2023]
Abstract
Reproducible and in situ microbial detection, particularly of microbes significant in urinary tract infections (UTIs) such as Candida albicans, provides a unique opportunity to bring equity in the healthcare outcomes of disenfranchised groups like women in low-resource settings. Here, we demonstrate a system to potentially detect vulvovaginal candidiasis by leveraging the properties of multifilament cotton threads in the form of microfluidic-thread-based analytical devices (μTADs) to develop a frugal microbial identification assay. A facile mercerization method using heptane wash to boost reagent absorption and penetration is also performed and is shown to be robust compared to other existing conventional mercerization methods. Furthermore, the twisted mercerized fibers are drop-cast with media consisting of l-proline β-naphthylamide, which undergoes hydrolysis by the enzyme l-proline aminopeptidase secreted by C. albicans, hence signaling the presence of the pathogen via simple color change with a limit of detection of 0.58 × 106 cfu/mL. The flexible and easily disposable thread-based detection device when integrated with menstrual hygiene products showed a detection time of 10 min using spiked vaginal discharge. The developed method boasts a long shelf life and high stability, making it a discreet detection device for testing, which provides new vistas for self-testing multiple diseases that are considered taboo in certain societies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anusha Prabhu
- Department
of Biotechnology, Manipal Institute of Technology, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Karnataka 576104, India
| | - Hardik Singhal
- Department
of Chemical Engineering, Manipal Institute of Technology, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Karnataka 576104, India
| | - M. S. Giri Nandagopal
- Department
of Mechanical Engineering, Indian Institute
of Technology, Kharagpur, Kharagpur 721302, India
| | - Reshma Kulal
- Department
of Biotechnology, Manipal Institute of Technology, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Karnataka 576104, India
| | - Prakash Peralam Yegneswaran
- Department
of Microbiology, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Karnataka 576104, India
- Manipal
Centre for Infectious Diseases, Prasanna School of Public Health, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Karnataka 576104, India
| | - Naresh Kumar Mani
- Department
of Biotechnology, Manipal Institute of Technology, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Karnataka 576104, India
- Manipal
Centre for Infectious Diseases, Prasanna School of Public Health, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Karnataka 576104, India
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Salinas AM, Osorio VG, Pacha-Herrera D, Vivanco JS, Trueba AF, Machado A. Vaginal microbiota evaluation and prevalence of key pathogens in ecuadorian women: an epidemiologic analysis. Sci Rep 2020; 10:18358. [PMID: 33110095 PMCID: PMC7591572 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-74655-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2020] [Accepted: 10/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Vaginal infection is a gynecological problem in women of reproductive age with multiple health outcomes. The most common forms of infection include bacterial vaginosis (BV), vulvovaginal candidiasis (VC), and aerobic vaginitis (AV). Our main goals were to evaluate different types of vaginal infections in Ecuadorian women in a large urban area (Quito) and to characterize the vaginal microbiota colonization by opportunistic species. We collected vaginal swabs and epidemiological surveys from 414 women from June 2016 to July of 2017. We analyzed vaginal samples for the presence of any vaginal infection. The microbiological examination was done through Gram-stain, wet mount smears, and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assays using primers for target genes, such as 16S rRNA (Atopobium vaginae, Mobiluncus mulieris, and Gardnerella species), ddl (Enterococcus faecalis), adk (Escherichia coli) and KER1 (Candida albicans) genes. Most women showed a healthy vaginal microbiota (66.7%). Nearly one-tenth (10.4%) of the participants had intermediate microbiota, and the remaining women (22.9%) had a single vaginal infection (BV, AV, or VC) or coinfections. From the 95 participants that had an infection, AV was the main diagnosed vaginal infection (51.6%), followed by BV (24.2%) and finally VC (7.4%). The remaining women (16.8%) showed coinfections, being BV and AV the most common coinfection. Using univariable logistic regression analyses we found an increased odds of healthy microbiota in women with a sexual partner (P = 0.02, OR = 1.64). Also, women in a free union relationship (P = 0.000, OR = 16.65) had an increased odds of having coinfections. On the other hand, the use of birth control (condom OR = 0.388 or other contraceptive method OR = 0.363) was associated with significantly lower odds of intermediate microbiota (P ≤ 0.05). We found no statistically significant differences between women with infection and a particular group age. Using multivariate logistic regression analyses we initially found an increased odds of having BV in women with M. mulieris (P = 0.020, OR = 4.98) and Gardnerella species (P = 0.010, OR = 4.16). Women with E. coli showed an increased odds of having AV (P = 0.009, OR = 2.81). The presence of C. albicans in women showed an increased odds of having VC (P = 0.007, OR = 17.94). Finally, women with M. mulieris showed a reverse odds of having healthy microbiota (P = 0.008, OR = 0.06). We found no statistically significant differences between women with symptomatic and asymptomatic infections or the presence of Enterococcus faecalis. We found using logistic regression analyses that M. mulieris was the most prevalent opportunistic pathogen among women with vaginal infection. Further studies should evaluate the possibility to use M. mulieris as a potential key predictor for vaginal infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana María Salinas
- Instituto de Microbiología, Colegio de Ciencias Biológicas y Ambientales (COCIBA), Universidad San Francisco de Quito (USFQ), Diego de Robles y Vía Interoceánica, Campus Cumbayá, Casilla Postal 17-1200-841, Quito, 170901, Ecuador
| | - Verónica Gabriela Osorio
- Instituto de Microbiología, Colegio de Ciencias Biológicas y Ambientales (COCIBA), Universidad San Francisco de Quito (USFQ), Diego de Robles y Vía Interoceánica, Campus Cumbayá, Casilla Postal 17-1200-841, Quito, 170901, Ecuador
| | - David Pacha-Herrera
- Instituto de Microbiología, Colegio de Ciencias Biológicas y Ambientales (COCIBA), Universidad San Francisco de Quito (USFQ), Diego de Robles y Vía Interoceánica, Campus Cumbayá, Casilla Postal 17-1200-841, Quito, 170901, Ecuador
| | - Juan S Vivanco
- Instituto de Microbiología, Colegio de Ciencias Biológicas y Ambientales (COCIBA), Universidad San Francisco de Quito (USFQ), Diego de Robles y Vía Interoceánica, Campus Cumbayá, Casilla Postal 17-1200-841, Quito, 170901, Ecuador
| | - Ana Francisca Trueba
- Brain and Behavior Laboratory, Colegio de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad San Francisco de Quito (USFQ), Diego de Robles y Vía Interoceánica, Campus Cumbayá, Casilla Postal 17-1200-841, Quito, 170901, Ecuador
| | - António Machado
- Instituto de Microbiología, Colegio de Ciencias Biológicas y Ambientales (COCIBA), Universidad San Francisco de Quito (USFQ), Diego de Robles y Vía Interoceánica, Campus Cumbayá, Casilla Postal 17-1200-841, Quito, 170901, Ecuador.
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Abdul-Aziz M, Mahdy MAK, Abdul-Ghani R, Alhilali NA, Al-Mujahed LKA, Alabsi SA, Al-Shawish FAM, Alsarari NJM, Bamashmos W, Abdulwali SJH, Al Karawani M, Almikhlafy AA. Bacterial vaginosis, vulvovaginal candidiasis and trichomonal vaginitis among reproductive-aged women seeking primary healthcare in Sana'a city, Yemen. BMC Infect Dis 2019; 19:879. [PMID: 31640583 PMCID: PMC6805389 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-019-4549-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2019] [Accepted: 10/09/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In Yemen, the underlying causes of infectious vaginitis have been neglected. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the prevalence and risk factors associated with bacterial vaginosis (BV), vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) and trichomonal vaginitis (TV) among non-pregnant reproductive-aged women. METHODS A cross-sectional study was conducted among 347 non-pregnant reproductive-aged women seeking primary healthcare in Sana'a city, Yemen. Data about sociodemographic characteristics, lifestyle-related behaviors, routine hygienic practices, menstrual care and history and type of contraceptive intake were collected using a structured questionnaire. Vaginal discharge samples were collected and examined for discharge characteristics and pH by a gynecologist. Then, samples were examined for BV, VVC and TV. Data were analyzed using suitable statistical tests. RESULTS Vaginal infections were prevalent among 37.6% of reproductive-aged women, where BV was the most prevalent (27.2%). VVC was significantly higher among symptomatic women and significantly associated with itching (P = 0.005). Using bivariate analysis, the age of < 25 years (odds ratio [OR] = 1.9, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.16-3.10; P = 0.010) and using intrauterine contraceptive devices (IUCDs) (OR = 1.8, 95% CI: 1.09-2.89; P = 0.020) were significantly associated with BV, while history of miscarriage was significantly associated with a lower risk of BV (OR = 0.5, 95% CI: 0.31-0.85, P = 0.009). However, polygyny was significantly associated with VVC (OR = 3.4, 95% CI: 1.33-8.66; P = 0.007). Multivariable analysis confirmed that age of < 25 years and using IUCD were the independent predictors of BV, while history of miscarriage was an independent protective factor against BV. On the other hand, marriage to a polygamous husband was the independent predictor of VVC. CONCLUSIONS More than a third of non-pregnant reproductive-aged women seeking PHC in Sana'a have single or mixed infections with BV, VVC or TV. BV is the most frequent cause of vaginitis and is significantly associated with the age of < 25 years and using IUCDs, while VVC is significantly higher among women with polygamous husbands. Health education of polygamous husbands and their wives, regular monitoring of BV among IUCD users and screening women for vaginitis before treatment are recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maha Abdul-Aziz
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Science and Technology, Sana'a, Yemen
| | - Mohammed A K Mahdy
- Tropical Disease Research Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Science and Technology, Sana'a, Yemen. .,Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Sana'a University, Sana'a, Yemen.
| | - Rashad Abdul-Ghani
- Tropical Disease Research Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Science and Technology, Sana'a, Yemen.,Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Sana'a University, Sana'a, Yemen
| | - Nuha A Alhilali
- Medical Laboratory Sciences Program, Faculty of Medicine, University of Science and Technology, Sana'a, Yemen
| | - Leena K A Al-Mujahed
- Medical Laboratory Sciences Program, Faculty of Medicine, University of Science and Technology, Sana'a, Yemen
| | - Salma A Alabsi
- Medical Laboratory Sciences Program, Faculty of Medicine, University of Science and Technology, Sana'a, Yemen
| | - Fatima A M Al-Shawish
- Medical Laboratory Sciences Program, Faculty of Medicine, University of Science and Technology, Sana'a, Yemen
| | - Noura J M Alsarari
- Medical Laboratory Sciences Program, Faculty of Medicine, University of Science and Technology, Sana'a, Yemen
| | - Wala Bamashmos
- Medical Laboratory Sciences Program, Faculty of Medicine, University of Science and Technology, Sana'a, Yemen
| | - Shahad J H Abdulwali
- Medical Laboratory Sciences Program, Faculty of Medicine, University of Science and Technology, Sana'a, Yemen
| | - Mahdi Al Karawani
- Department of Community Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Science and Technology, Sana'a, Yemen
| | - Abdullah A Almikhlafy
- Department of Community Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Science and Technology, Sana'a, Yemen
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Santos-Greatti MMDV, da Silva MG, Ferreira CST, Marconi C. Cervicovaginal cytokines, sialidase activity and bacterial load in reproductive-aged women with intermediate vaginal flora. J Reprod Immunol 2016; 118:36-41. [PMID: 27620141 DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2016.08.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2016] [Revised: 08/08/2016] [Accepted: 08/15/2016] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Studies have shown that not only bacterial vaginosis, but also intermediate vaginal flora has deleterious effects for women's reproductive health. However, literature still lacks information about microbiological and immunological aspects of intermediate flora. OBJECTIVE To characterize intermediate flora regarding levels of Interleukin (IL)-1beta, IL-6, IL-8, tumor necrosis factor-alpha, interleukin 1 receptor antagonist (IL-1ra), IL-10, sialidase; loads of Gardnerella vaginalis, total bacteria and to verify whether it is closer related to normal flora or bacterial vaginosis. This cross-sectional study enrolled 526 non-pregnant reproductive-aged women distributed in 3 groups according to pattern of vaginal flora using Nugent's system in normal, intermediate and bacterial vaginosis. Cervicovaginal levels of cytokines, sialidases, loads of G. vaginalis and total bacteria were assessed by ELISA, conversion of MUAN and quantitative real-time PCR, respectively. A principal component analysis(PCA) using all measured parameters was performed to compare the three different types of flora. Results showed that intermediate flora is associated with increased cervicovaginal IL-1beta in relation to normal flora(P<0.0001). When compared to bacterial vaginosis, intermediate flora has higher IL-8 and IL-10 levels(P<0.01). Sialidases were in significantly lower levels in normal and intermediate flora than bacterial vaginosis(P<0.0001). Loads of G. vaginalis and total bacterial differed among all groups(P<0.0001), being highest in bacterial vaginosis. PCA showed that normal and intermediate flora were closely scattered, while bacterial vaginosis were grouped separately. CONCLUSION Although intermediate flora shows some differences in cytokines, sialidases and bacterial loads in relation to normal flora and bacterial vaginosis, when taken together, general microbiological and immunological pattern pattern of intermediate flora resembles the normal flora.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Márcia Guimarães da Silva
- Department of Pathology, Botucatu Medical School, UNESP - Univ. Estadual Paulista, Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil.
| | | | - Camila Marconi
- Department of Pathology, Botucatu Medical School, UNESP - Univ. Estadual Paulista, Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil; Department of Basic Pathology - Federal University of Paraná, Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil.
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Mulu W, Yimer M, Zenebe Y, Abera B. Common causes of vaginal infections and antibiotic susceptibility of aerobic bacterial isolates in women of reproductive age attending at Felegehiwot Referral Hospital, Ethiopia: a cross sectional study. BMC WOMENS HEALTH 2015; 15:42. [PMID: 25968607 PMCID: PMC4438529 DOI: 10.1186/s12905-015-0197-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2014] [Accepted: 05/01/2015] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Bacterial vaginosis, candidal, trichomonal and Gonococcal vaginal infections are a major health problems associated with gynecologic complications and increase in replication, shedding and transmission of HIV and other STIs in women of reproductive age. The study aimed at determining the prevalence of common vaginal infections and antimicrobial susceptibility profiles of aerobic bacterial isolates in women of reproductive age, attending Felegehiwot referral Hospital. METHODS A hospital based cross sectional study was conducted from May to November, 2013. Simple random sampling technique was used. Demographic variables were collected using a structured questionnaire. Clinical data were collected by physicians. Two vaginal swab specimens were collected from each participant. Wet mount and Gram staining were carried out to identify motile T.vaginalis, budding yeast and clue cells. All vaginal specimens were cultured for aerobic bacterial isolates using standard microbiology methods. Antimicrobial susceptibility was performed using disc diffusion technique as per the standard by Kirby-Bauer method. The results were analyzed using descriptive, chi-square and fisher's exact test as appropriate. RESULTS A total of 409 women in reproductive age (15 - 49 years) participated in the study. The median age of the women was 28 years. Overall, 63 (15.4 %) of women had vaginal infections. The proportion of vaginal infection was higher in non-pregnant (17.3 %) than pregnant women (13.3 %) (P = 0.002). The most common identified vaginal infections were candidiasis (8.3 %) and bacterial vaginosis (2.8 %) followed by trichomoniasis (2.1 %). The isolation rate of N. gonorrhoeae and group B Streptococcus colonization was 4 (1 %) and 6 (1.2 %), respectively. Bacterial vaginosis was higher in non-pregnant (5.6 %) than pregnant women (0.5 %) (P = 0.002). Religion, age, living in rural area and having lower abdominal pain were significantly associated with bacterial vaginosis and candidiasis (P < 0.05). E.coli, Pseudomonas spp. and S.aureus were frequently isolated. Norfloxacin (75.6 %), ciprofloxacin (79.6 %) and gentamicin (77.6 %) revealed high level of sensitivity whereas high resistance rates were observed for amoxicillin (82.2 %), tetracycline (63.3 %) and cotrimoxazole (62.2 %). CONCLUSIONS Bacterial vaginosis, candidiasis and trichomoniasis are a common problem in women of reproductive age. Therefore, screening of vaginal infections in women of reproductive age should be implemented. Moreover, ciprofloxacin, norfloxacin and gentamicin are the recommended drugs for empiric therapy and prophylaxis as needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wondemagegn Mulu
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Immunology and Parasitology, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Bahir Dar University, Bahir Dar, Ethiopia.
| | - Mulat Yimer
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Immunology and Parasitology, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Bahir Dar University, Bahir Dar, Ethiopia.
| | - Yohannes Zenebe
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Immunology and Parasitology, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Bahir Dar University, Bahir Dar, Ethiopia.
| | - Bayeh Abera
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Immunology and Parasitology, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Bahir Dar University, Bahir Dar, Ethiopia.
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Abstract
There is some evidence that the risk of HIV infection per heterosexual act is higher in low-income countries than in high-income countries. We hypothesize that variations in per sex-act transmission probability of HIV may in part be attributed to differences in the composition and function of the vaginal microbiota between different populations. This paper presents data that are in support of this hypothesis. Experimental and clinical studies have provided evidence that the normal vaginal microbiota plays a protective role against acquisition of HIV and other sexually transmitted infections. Epidemiological studies have convincingly shown that disturbances of the vaginal microbiome, namely intermediate flora and bacterial vaginosis, increase the risk of acquisition of HIV infection. A review of the literature found large differences in prevalence of bacterial vaginosis between different populations, with the highest prevalence rates found in black populations. Possible explanations for these differences are presented including data suggesting that there are ethnic differences in the composition of the normal vaginal microbiota. Lastly, interventions are discussed to restore and maintain a healthy vaginal environment.
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Kalantari N, Ghaffari S, Bayani M. Trichomonas, Candida, and gardnerella in cervical smears of Iranian women for cancer screening. NORTH AMERICAN JOURNAL OF MEDICAL SCIENCES 2014; 6:25-9. [PMID: 24678473 PMCID: PMC3938869 DOI: 10.4103/1947-2714.125861] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Background: Trichomonas vaginalis, Gardrenella vaginalis, and Candida sp are responsible for 90% of vaginitis which has been reported as important risk factors for cervical cancer. Aim: This study aimed to find the prevalence of T. vaginalis, Candida sp, and G. vaginalis in women attended the cancer clinic charity, Babol, Iran and to identify the associated risk factors. Materials and Methods: This retrospective study carried out from 1996 to July 2012 on women who attended to a cancer screening program at the cancer clinics charity, Babol, Iran. Papanicolaou test and clinical examinations were performed for each woman. In addition to Papanicolaou test results, demographic data were collected. The data were analyzed with X2 test using SPSS software, version 18. Results: In total, 2511 out of 33600 (7.5%) cases had vaginal infections. A total of 71 (0.2%), 2248 (6.7%), and 192 (0.6%) of subjects were infected by T. vaginalis, Candida sp, and Gardnerella, respectively. The highest rate of infection was seen in 20-30 and 30-40 years age group. The frequency of vaginal ulcers was higher in trichomoniasis (14.1%). Conclusion: This study demonstrated that the prevalence of T. vaginalis, Candida sp, and Gardnerella was low among the studied population. Moreover, malignant cytological alternations were not seen in any infected women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Narges Kalantari
- Cellular and Molecular Biology Research Center, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran
| | - Salman Ghaffari
- Department of Parasitology Mycology, Faculty of Medicine, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran
| | - Masomeh Bayani
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine Research Center, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran
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Kenyon C, Colebunders R, Crucitti T. The global epidemiology of bacterial vaginosis: a systematic review. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2013; 209:505-23. [PMID: 23659989 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2013.05.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 250] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2013] [Revised: 03/12/2013] [Accepted: 05/02/2013] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Bacterial vaginosis (BV) enhances the acquisition and transmission of a range of sexually transmitted infections including human immunodeficiency virus. This has made it more important to uncover the reasons why some populations have very high BV prevalences and others not. This systematic review describes the global epidemiology of BV. It summarizes data from peer-reviewed publications detailing the population prevalence of BV as diagnosed by a standardized and reproducible methodology-Nugent scoring system. BV variations between countries, and between ethnic groups within countries, are described. We evaluated 1692 English- and non-English-language articles describing the prevalence of BV using MEDLINE and the Web of Science databases. A total of 86 articles met our inclusion criteria. BV prevalences were found to vary considerably between ethnic groups in North America, South America, Europe, the Middle East, and Asia. Although BV prevalence is, in general, highest in parts of Africa and lowest in much of Asia and Europe, some populations in Africa have very low BV prevalences and some in Asia and Europe have high rates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chris Kenyon
- HIV/STD Unit, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Antwerp, Belgium; Division of Infectious Diseases and HIV Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa.
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Mengistie Z, Woldeamanuel Y, Asrat D, Yigeremu M. Comparison of clinical and gram stain diagnosis methods of bacterial vaginosis among pregnant women in ethiopia. J Clin Diagn Res 2013; 7:2701-3. [PMID: 24551617 PMCID: PMC3919279 DOI: 10.7860/jcdr/2013/5872.3736] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2013] [Accepted: 05/14/2013] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Bacterial Vaginosis (BV) is characterized by an increased thin homogenous white vaginal discharge accompanied by fishy odour and increased vaginal pH. It is associated with different gynecologic and poor obstetric outcome. Bacterial vaginosis can be easily diagnosed by combination of two Amsel's criteria. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to evaluate the accuracy of Amsel's criteria individually or in combination of two for the clinical diagnosis of bacterial vaginosis among pregnant women in Ethiopia. MATERIAL AND METHODS In this crosssectional study 252 pregnant women were screened for bacterial vaginosis. Vaginal swabs were collected for pH determination, saline wet mount microscopic examination to detect clue cells, KOH preparation for whiff test and Gram-stain evaluation of vaginal flora for diagnosis of bacterial vaginosis by Nugent scoring system. Accuracy of clinical diagnosis using individual and two of Amsel's criteria was evaluated. RESULTS The prevalence of BV was 18.3% by Amsel's two of three criteria and 19.4% Gram by Nugent's methods. Comparing with Nugent scoring methods, the clinical diagnosis by Amsel's criteria had sensitivity of 85.7%, specificity of 98%. The most sensitive and specific individual Amsel's criterion was clue cells. Amsel's criteria with the lowest sensitivity and specificity were whiff test and vaginal pH respectively. Combination of clue cells with vaginal pH test were the highest in sensitive while whiff test with clue cells were the highest in specificity than the other combined two Amsel's criteria. CONCLUSION Amsel's criteria diagnosis of bacterial vaginosis can be simplified by using a combination of the two criteria, vaginal pH and clue cells, in settings where time or Gram staining is not available.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zemenu Mengistie
- Faculty, Department of Biomedical Science, College of Health Sciences, Mizan Tepi University, P.O. Box 260, Mizan, Ethiopia
| | - Yimtubezinash Woldeamanuel
- Faculty, Department of Medical Microbiology, Immunology and Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Addis Ababa University, P.O. Box 9086, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Daniel Asrat
- Faculty, Department of Medical Microbiology, Immunology and Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Addis Ababa University, P.O. Box 9086, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Mahlet Yigeremu
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Addis Ababa University, P.O. Box 9086, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
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Zhang Y, Rochefort D. Fast and effective paper based sensor for self-diagnosis of bacterial vaginosis. Anal Chim Acta 2013; 800:87-94. [DOI: 10.1016/j.aca.2013.09.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2013] [Revised: 08/08/2013] [Accepted: 09/16/2013] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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13
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Hickey RJ, Zhou X, Pierson JD, Ravel J, Forney LJ. Understanding vaginal microbiome complexity from an ecological perspective. Transl Res 2012; 160:267-82. [PMID: 22683415 PMCID: PMC3444549 DOI: 10.1016/j.trsl.2012.02.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 166] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2011] [Revised: 02/13/2012] [Accepted: 02/14/2012] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
The various microbiota normally associated with the human body have an important influence on human development, physiology, immunity, and nutrition. This is certainly true for the vagina wherein communities of mutualistic bacteria constitute the first line of defense for the host by excluding invasive, nonindigenous organisms that may cause disease. In recent years much has been learned about the bacterial species composition of these communities and how they differ between individuals of different ages and ethnicities. A deeper understanding of their origins and the interrelationships of constituent species is needed to understand how and why they change over time or in response to changes in the host environment. Moreover, there are few unifying theories to explain the ecological dynamics of vaginal ecosystems as they respond to disturbances caused by menses and human activities such as intercourse, douching, and other habits and practices. This fundamental knowledge is needed to diagnose and assess risk to disease. Here we summarize what is known about the species composition, structure, and function of bacterial communities in the human vagina and the applicability of ecological models of community structure and function to understanding the dynamics of this and other ecosystems that comprise the human microbiome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roxana J Hickey
- Institute for Bioinformatics and Evolutionary Studies-IBEST, University of Idaho, Moscow, ID, USA
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Vaca M, Guadalupe I, Erazo S, Tinizaray K, Chico ME, Cooper PJ, Hay P. High prevalence of bacterial vaginosis in adolescent girls in a tropical area of Ecuador. BJOG 2010; 117:225-8. [PMID: 19874295 DOI: 10.1111/j.1471-0528.2009.02397.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is a common clinical syndrome, but data are scarce on the BV prevalence in tropical regions among sexually active and virgin adolescents. To estimate the prevalence of BV among adolescent girls in an Ecuadorian coastal town, girls were asked to complete a questionnaire on risk factors for BV and vaginal samples were examined. Bacterial vaginosis was present in 31.5% of 213 girls, and the prevalence was similar in self-reported virgin and sexually active girls (OR 1.06, 95% CI, 0.51-2.21, P = 0.88), although the power of this analysis was limited. The prevalence of BV was high among Ecuadorian adolescent girls, and did not appear to be associated with sexual activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Vaca
- Laboratorio de Investigaciones, Hospital Pedro Vicente Maldonado, Pichincha Province, Ecuador
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Madhivanan P, Krupp K, Chandrasekaran V, Karat C, Arun A, Cohen CR, Reingold AL, Klausner JD. PREVALENCE AND CORRELATES OF BACTERIAL VAGINOSIS AMONG YOUNG WOMEN OF REPRODUCTIVE AGE IN MYSORE, INDIA. Indian J Med Microbiol 2008. [DOI: 10.1016/s0255-0857(21)01928-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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