Vulvovaginal Candidiasis;
• A common fungal vaginitis caused by overgrowth of Candida in the vagina.
• It is not usually a sexually transmitted infection.
📊 Epidemiology;
• ~ 75% of women experience at least one episode in their lifetime
• ~ 50% have recurrent infections
🧫 Cause;
Main pathogen:
• Candida albicans (most common)
Other species:
• Candida glabrata
• Candida tropicalis
⚠️ Risk Factors;
• Antibiotic therapy 💊
• Pregnancy 🤰
• Diabetes mellitus 🍬
• Immunosuppression
• Hormonal contraception
• Tight or synthetic underwear 👙
• Prolonged moisture (wet clothes/swimsuits)
• Vaginal sprays or scented products
🔰 Symptoms;
Local symptoms 👩;
• Severe vaginal itching 🔥
• Burning sensation
• Thick white discharge (cottage cheese) ⚪
• Vulvar redness and swelling 🔴
• Vaginal soreness
• Cracks or fissures in vulvar skin
Urinary / sexual symptoms;
• Burning during urination 🚻
• Pain during sexual intercourse
⭐ Important clinical feature
Usually no strong odor.
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