Bacterial vaginosis-associated bacteria in cisgender men who have sex with women: prevalence, association with non-gonococcal urethritis and natural history.

OBJECTIVES: Bacterial vaginosis-associated bacterium 2 (BVAB2), Mageeibacillus indolicus and Sneathia spp are highly predictive of bacterial vaginosis (BV) in cisgender women. They have been associated with non-gonococcal urethritis (NGU) in cisgender men in some but not all populations. We evaluated this association in a cross-sectional study of cisgender men who have sex with women only (MSW). METHODS: MSW without gonorrhoea attending a sexual health clinic (SHC) from 2014 to 2018 completed a computer-assisted self-interview, clinical interview and examination. NGU was defined as ≥5 polymorphonuclear leucocytes/high-power field in urethral exudates plus either urethral symptoms or visible discharge. Urine was tested for Chlamydia trachomatis and Mycoplasma genitalium using Aptima (Hologic) and for BVAB2, M. indolicus, Sneathia spp, Trichomonas vaginalis, Ureaplasma urealyticum, Haemophilus influenzae, herpes simplex virus and adenovirus using quantitative PCR. RESULTS: Of 317 MSW age 17-71, 67 (21.1%) had Sneathia spp, 36 (11.4%) had BVAB2, and 17 (5.4%) had M. indolicus at enrolment. Having ≥3 partners in the past 2 months was the only characteristic that was more common among MSW with than those without these bacteria (BVAB2: 47% vs 23%, M. indolicus: 53% vs 24%, Sneathia spp: 42% vs 22%; p≤0.03 for all). One-hundred seventeen men (37%) were diagnosed with NGU at enrolment. There was no significant association of BVAB2, M. indolicus or Sneathia spp with NGU (adjusted OR=0.59, 95% CI 0.14 to 2.43; aOR=3.40, 95% CI 0.68 to 17.06; aOR=0.46, 95% CI 0.16 to 1.27). Of 109 MSW with monthly samples, 34 (31.2%) had one of the bacteria at one or more follow-up visits, 22 of which were co-colonised with >1. Median persistence over 6 months did not differ significantly (BVAB2=30.5 days, IQR=28-87; M. indolicus=87 days, IQR=60-126; Sneathia spp=70 days, IQR=30-135; p≥0.20 for each comparison). CONCLUSIONS: Neither BVAB2, M. indolicus nor Sneathia spp were associated with increased risk of prevalent NGU in MSW attending an SHC.

Prevalence and factors associated with bacterial vaginosis in women in Brazil: a systematic review / Prevalência e fatores associados à vaginose bacteriana em mulheres no Brasil: uma revisão sistemática

Introduction: Bacterial vaginosis is characterized by the imbalance of the vaginal flora, with decrease in Lactobacillus and increase in other bacteria. Objective: To investigate the prevalence and factors associated with bacterial vaginosis. Methods: Systematic review based on the guidelines of the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses, filed in the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews. The research was conducted in the PubMed and Scopus databases in September 2021. After reading the titles and abstracts of 84 articles and the full text of 20 articles, 10 of them were included in the review. The articles were considered eligible if they investigated the prevalence of bacterial vaginosis and used Amsel's diagnostic criteria or Gram-stained bacterioscopy in women of reproductive age without comorbidities. The studies were evaluated by two investigators to establish reliability. The risk of bias and the quality of the selected studies were evaluated using the Joanna Briggs Institute tool. Results: The mean prevalence of bacterial vaginosis in the included studies was 25.4% (95%CI 24.0­26.8). In three population-based studies, the mean prevalence was 18.1% (95%CI 16.0­20.5); and in seven clinic-based studies, it was 27.2% (95%CI 24.6­29.9). The factors associated with bacterial vaginosis were the use of sex accessories (OR 2.4; 95%CI 1.1­4.9), marital status "single" (OR 1.4; 95%CI 1.1­1.8), partner infidelity (OR 1.5; 95%CI 1.2­1.9), abnormal vaginal secretion (OR 1.5; 95%CI 1.2­2.0), and the presence of trichomoniasis (OR 4.1; 95%CI 1.5­11.5). Conclusion: The prevalence of bacterial vaginosis was high, and the associated factors are linked to sexual behavior.

Introdução: A vaginose bacteriana caracteriza-se pelo desequilíbrio da flora vaginal, com diminuição dos Lactobacillus e aumento de outras bactérias. Objetivo: Investigar a prevalência e os fatores associados à vaginose bacteriana. Métodos: Revisão sistemática baseada nas diretrizes do Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses, protocolado no International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews. A pesquisa foi realizada nas bases de dados da PubMed e da Scopus, em setembro de 2021. Após a leitura dos títulos e dos resumos de 84 artigos e do texto completo de 20 artigos, dez foram incluídos na revisão. Os trabalhos foram considerados elegíveis quando investigaram a prevalência de vaginose bacteriana e utilizaram os critérios diagnósticos de Amsel ou a bacterioscopia corada pelo Gram em mulheres em idade reprodutiva e sem comorbidades. Os estudos foram avaliados por duas pesquisadoras para estabelecer a confiabilidade. O risco de viés e a qualidade das pesquisas selecionadas foram avaliados pela ferramenta do Joanna Briggs Institute. Resultados: A prevalência média de vaginose bacteriana nos trabalhos incluídos foi de 25,4% (intervalo de confiança ­ IC95% 24,0­26,8). Em três estudos de base populacional, a prevalência média foi de 18,1% (IC95% 16,0­20,5); e, em sete estudos de base clínica, a prevalência média foi de 27,2% (IC95% 24,6­29,9). Os fatores associados à vaginose bacteriana foram o uso de acessórios sexuais (odds ratio ­OR 2,4; IC95% 1,1­4,9), estado civil "solteira" (OR 1,4; IC95% 1,1­1,8), infidelidade do parceiro (OR 1,5; IC95% 1,2­1,9), secreção vaginal anormal (OR 1,5; IC95% 1,2­2,0) e presença de tricomoníase (OR 4,1; IC95% 1,5­11,5). Conclusão: A prevalência de vaginose bacteriana foi elevada e os fatores associados estão ligados ao comportamento sexual.

Douching cessation and molecular bacterial vaginosis: a reanalysis of archived specimens.

OBJECTIVES: Observational studies demonstrate an association between vaginal douching and bacterial vaginosis (BV) characterised by Gram stain. We sought to describe the effect of a douching cessation intervention on the composition and structure of the vaginal microbiota and molecular-BV, a state defined by low levels of Lactobacillus spp evaluated by molecular tools. METHODS: 33 women self-collected mid-vaginal swabs twice weekly (982 samples) during a douching observation phase (4 weeks) followed by a douching cessation phase (12 weeks) in a 2005 single crossover pilot study conducted in Baltimore, Maryland. Vaginal microbiota were characterised by 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing (V3-V4) and clustered into community state types (CSTs). Conditional logistic regression modelling allowed each participant to serve as their own control. Wilcoxon signed-rank tests were used to evaluate changes in microbiota between phases. Broad-range qPCR assays provided estimates of bacterial absolute abundance per swab in a subsample of seven participants before and after douching. A piecewise linear mixed effects model was used to assess rates of change in bacterial absolute abundance before and after douching. RESULTS: There was no statistically significant change in the odds of molecular-BV versus Lactobacillus-dominated CSTs comparing the douching cessation interval to douching observation (adjusted OR 1.77, 95% CI 0.89 to 3.55). Removal of L. iners-dominated CST III from the outcome did not affect the results. There were no significant changes in the relative abundance of four Lactobacillus spp and no meaningful changes in other taxa investigated. There was no significant change in bacterial absolute abundance between a participant's sample collected 3 days prior to and following douching (p=0.46). CONCLUSIONS: In this pilot study, douching cessation was not associated with major changes in vaginal microbiota. Douching cessation alone may not durably shift the vaginal microbiota and additional interventions may be needed to restore optimal vaginal microbiota among those who douche.

Investigating Oxidative Stress Levels in Pregnant Patients Infected with Hepatitis C Virus and Bacterial Vaginosis for Better Treatment Option.

Objectives: Hepatitis C virus (HCV) and bacterial vaginosis (BV) coinfection generate sustained inflammation with bulk production of reactive oxygen species. They have the potency to cause hepatocellular carcinoma, vaginal apoptosis, disturb pregnancy, and influence drug treatment and follow-up. This case-control study aimed to compare the redox status in HCV and BV coinfection with respect to BV mono-infection among pregnant females (PFs). Methods: Blood samples and vaginal secretions were drawn from 75 PFs divided into three groups: coinfection (n = 25), monoinfection (n = 25), and control PFs (n = 25) who are presumed healthy subjects. Blood samples were analyzed for HCV detection based on conserved 5' untranslated region via real-time polymerase chain reaction and hematological parameters. Markers of oxidative stress (malondialdehyde and peroxidase) and antioxidants (catalase and superoxide dismutase) were checked in plasma as well as vaginal secretions of patients among all three groups. Results: Hematological analysis reveals that hemoglobin levels, platelets, and lymphocytes decreased significantly (p < 0.050) among the coinfection followed by mono-infection group compared to the control group. Moreover, the higher isolation frequency of pathogenic bacteria (Acinetobacter spp.) and Nugent score trend was observed among the coinfection group. Antioxidant levels were significantly lower (p < 0.050) among the vaginal secretions and blood plasma of patients having coinfection with respect to the mono-infection and control groups. While oxidative stress marker was significantly highest (p < 0.050) among vaginal secretions and blood plasma of coinfection followed by mono-infection and control group. These results validate that overall redox severity was more among the coinfection compared to the mono-infection and control groups. Conclusions: Redox indexes should be considered in early diagnosis and treatment of HCV and BV coinfection which may also facilitate the better treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma and vaginal apoptosis.

Actividad antimicrobiana in vitro del extracto de hojas de Bixa orellana L. contra bacterias anaerobias asociadas a la vaginosis bacteriana y Lactobacillus spp / In vitro antimicrobial activity of Bixa orellana L. leaves extract against anaerobic bacteria associated to bacterial vaginosis and Lactobacillus spp.

Objetivos . Describir la actividad antimicrobiana in vitro del extracto metanólico de las hojas de Bixa orellana L. contra las bacterias anaerobias asociadas a la vaginosis bacteriana y Lactobacillus spp. Materiales y métodos . Se incluyeron en el estudio ocho cepas de referencia ATCC; Gardnerella vaginalis, Prevotella bivia, Peptococcus niger, Peptostreptococcus anaerobius, Mobiluncus curtisii, Atopobium vaginae, Veillonella parvula y Lactobacillus crispatus, y 22 aislamientos clínicos; once aislados de Gardnerella vaginalis y once aislados de Lactobacillus. La susceptibilidad antimicrobiana se determinó mediante el método de difusión en agar. La concentración mínima inhibitoria (CMI) y la concentración bactericida mínima (CBM) fueron determinadas utilizando el método de dilución en agar y un método de dilución modificado, respectivamente. Resultados . Todas las cepas de referencia ATCC tuvieron un alto nivel de susceptibilidad al extracto, con excepción de P. vibia, V. parvula y L. crispatus. Interesantemente, los aislamientos clínicos de G. vaginalis y la cepa ATCC de G. vaginalis fueron los más susceptibles al extracto dados los bajos valores de CMI (1,0 - 2,0 mg/mL) y CBM (1,0 - 4,0 mg/mL), mientras que, los aislamientos clínicos de Lactobacillus spp. y la cepa ATCC de L. crispatus fueron los menos susceptibles debido a los altos valores de CMI (32,0 mg/mL) y CBM (≥ 32,0 mg/mL). Conclusiones . Los experimentos in vitro sugieren que el extracto posee propiedades antibacterianas selectivas dada su alta actividad contra bacterias anaerobias asociadas a vaginosis bacteriana y baja actividad contra especies de Lactobacillus.

Objective. To describe the in vitro antimicrobial activity of the methanolic extract of Bixa orellana L. leaves against anaerobic bacteria associated to bacterial vaginosis and Lactobacillus spp. Materials and methods. Eight ATCC reference strains; Gardnerella vaginalis, Prevotella bivia, Peptococcus niger, Peptostreptococcus anaerobius, Mobiluncus curtisii, Atopobium vaginae, Veillonella parvula, and Lactobacillus crispatus, and twenty-two clinical isolates; eleven Gardnerella vaginalis and eleven Lactobacillus strains, were included in the study. The antimicrobial susceptibility was determined by the agar diffusion method. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) were determined by using agar dilution and a modified dilution plating method, respectively. Results. All ATCC reference strains showed high levels of susceptibility to the extract, except P. vibia, V. parvula and L. crispatus. Interestingly, all G. vaginalis clinical isolates and the G. vaginalis ATTC strain were the most susceptible to the extract, given their low MIC (1.0 - 2.0 mg/mL) and MBC (1.0 - 4.0 mg/mL) values, whereas, the Lactobacillus spp. clinical isolates and the L. crispatus ATCC strain were the least susceptible bacteria given their high MIC (32.0 mg/mL) and MBC (≥ 32.0 mg/mL) values. Conclusions. In vitro experiments suggest that the extract possesses selective antimicrobial properties given its high activity against bacterial vaginosis-associated anaerobic bacteria and low activity against Lactobacillus species.

Evaluación de la eficacia y seguridad del policresuleno en el tratamiento de la vaginitis mixta, Armenia, Colombia, 2017-2019. Estudio aleatorizado / Evaluation of the efficacy and safety of policresulen in the treatment of mixed vaginits, Armenia, Colombia, 2017-2019. Randomized study

Objetivo: evaluar la eficacia y seguridad de la adición de policresuleno a la terapia oral fluconazol ­ secnidazol, en mujeres con vaginitis mixta. Materiales y métodos:ensayo clínico aleatorizado, triple ciego, paralelo, controlado con placebo. Realizado en una clínica universitaria de Armenia (Colombia) entre 2017 y 2019. Participaron 122 mujeres mayores de 18 años, diagnosticadas de vaginitis mixta. El diagnóstico microbiológico se hizo mediante tinción de Gram, con posterior lectura del puntaje de Nugent y coloración de May Grunwald Giemsa prolongado, microscopía con KOH y frotis directo en fresco; se midió el pH con papel tornasol. Se les suministró terapia combinada de fluconazol-secnidazol oral más policresuleno vaginal (grupo «A¼, n=62) versus fluconazol-secnidazol oral más placebo vaginal (grupo «B¼, n=60). Se evaluó la mejoría de los síntomas, la tasa de curación y el porcentaje de satisfacción con la terapia. Resultados: la edad promedio fue de 29,75 ± 4,61 años. La mejoría de la sintomatología, al tercer día, fue mayor en el grupo «A¼ (85,48 % vs 68,33 %, p=0,001). Al final la tasa de curación (eficacia) fue superior en el grupo «A¼ (98,38 % vs 86,66 %) (p = 0,001). La satisfacción con el tratamiento administrado, alcanzó el 96,77 % (grupo «A¼) versus 93,33 % (grupo «B¼), (p = 0,411). El 27,41 % de las mujeres del grupo «A¼ y el 13,33 % del grupo «B¼ presentaron dos o más efectos secundarios (p = 0,001). Conclusiones: la combinación fluconazol - secnidazol oral más policresuleno vaginal, reporta una eficacia del 98,38 % para curar la vaginitis mixta, con satisfacción del 96,77 %..Au

Objective: to evaluate the efficacy and safety of the addition of policresulen to oral fluconazole - secnidazole therapy, in women with mixed vaginitis. Materials and methods:randomized, triple blind, parallel, placebo controlled clinical trial. In a university clinic in Armenia (Colombia); between 2017 and 2019. 122 women over 18 years of age,diagnosed with mixed vaginitis, participated. The microbiological diagnosis was made by Gram staining, with subsequent reading of the Nugent score and prolonged May Grunwald Giemsa staining, KOH microscopy and direct fresh smear; pH was measured with litmus paper. They were given combined fluconazole-oral secnidazole plus policresulen vaginal therapy (group "A", n = 62) versus oral fluconazole-secnidazole plus placebo vaginal (group "B", n = 60). Symptom improvement, cure rate and percentage of satisfaction with therapy were evaluated. Results: the improvement of the symptoms, on the third day, was greater in group «A¼ (85.48% vs 68.33%, p = 0.001). In the end, the cure was superior in group «A¼ (98.38% vs. 86.66%) (p = 0.001). Satisfaction with the administered treatment reached 96.77% (group "A") versus 93.33% (group "B"), (p = 0.411). 27.41% of the women in group «A¼ and 13.33% of group «B¼ presented two or more side effects (p = 0.001). Conclusions: the oral fluconazole -secnidazole plus vaginal polyresulene combination reports an efficacy of 98.38% to cure mixed vaginitis, with 96.77% satisfaction..Au

Associação entre Vaginose Bacteriana e Anormalidades Citológicas nos Exames Citopatológicos Analisados em um Laboratório Escola de Goiânia-GO / Association Between Bacterial Vaginosis and Cytological Abnormalities in Cytopathological Exams Analyzed in a Laboratory School of Goiânia-GO / Asociación entre Vaginosis Bacteriana y Anormalidades Citológicas en Exámenes Citopatológicos Analizados en una Escuela de Laboratorio de Goiânia-GO

Introdução: A Gardnerella vaginalis facilita a infecção pelo papilomavírus humano (HPV). Objetivo: Verificar a associação entre anormalidades citológicas e presença de Gardnerella vaginalis nos esfregaços cervicovaginais encaminhados ao Laboratório Clínico da Pontifícia Universidade Católica de Goiás (LAC/PUC Goiás) estratificadas por faixa etária. Método: Estudo transversal realizado no LAC/PUC Goiás entre janeiro de 2013 a dezembro de 2015. Para análises estatísticas, a variável idade foi categorizada em ≤39 anos e >40 anos, utilizando o programa IBM SPSS Statistics (Version 2.0, 2011®) para o teste de qui-quadrado (X²), com intervalo de confiança de 95% e valor p<0,05. Resultados: Foram analisados 4.558 exames citopatológicos, a maioria com presença de Lactobacillus spp. (46,97%). A prevalência dos agentes patogênicos foi a Gardnerella vaginalis (79,6%), seguida de Candida spp. (16,8%), Trichomonas vaginalis (2,2%), Herpes simplex (0,4 %) e Chlamydia trachomatis (0,1%). As anormalidades citológicas foram observadas em 9,1%, sendo atypical squamous cells of undetermined significance (ASC-US) 2,57%, low grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (LSIL) 1,78%, atypical squamous cells of undetermined significance cannot exclude high grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (ASC-H) 3,52%, high grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (HSIL) 1,08%, atypical endocervical cells, favor neoplastic (AGC-NEO) 0,22% e carcinoma 0,02%. Houve uma associação significante entre anormalidades citológicas graves e mulheres ≥40 anos, OR 3,01 (IC 95% 2,0-4,58) (p<0,0001). Mulheres ≤40 anos mostraram significância à presença de Gardnerella vaginalis (p<0,0004). Conclusão: Uma elevada prevalência de Gardnerella vaginalis foi encontrada associada com as anormalidades citológicas, principalmente em mulheres sexualmente ativas.

Introduction:Gardnerella vaginalis facilitates human papillomavirus (HPV) infection. Objective: To verify the association between cytological abnormalities and the presence of Gardnerella vaginalis in cervicovaginal smears sent to the Clinical Laboratory of the Pontifical Catholic University of Goiás (LAC/PUC Goiás) stratified by age range. Method: Cross-sectional study carried out at LAC/PUC Goiás from January 2013 to December 2015. For statistical analysis, the variable age was categorized as ≤39 years and >40 years, using the IBM SPSS Statistics program (Version 2.0, 2011®) for the chi-square test (X²), with a 95% confidence interval and p<0.05. Results:4,558 cytopathological exams were analyzed, most of them with the presence of Lactobacillus spp (46.97%). The prevalence of pathogens was Gardnerella vaginalis (79.6%), followed by Candida spp. (16.8%), Trichomonas vaginalis (2.2%), Herpes simplex (0.4%) and Chlamydia trachomatis (0.1%). Cytological abnormalities were observed in 9.1%, being atypical squamous cells of undetermined significance (ASC-US) 2.57%, low grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (LSIL) 1.78%, atypical squamous cells of undetermined significance cannot exclude high intraepithelial lesion (ASC-H) 3.52%, high grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (HSIL) 1.08%, atypical endocervical cells, neoplastic favor (AGC-NEO) 0.22% and carcinoma 0.02%. There was a significant association between severe cytological abnormalities and women >40 years old OR 3.01 (95% CI 2.0-4.58) (p<0.0001). Women ≤40 years old showed the presence of Gardnerella vaginalis (p<0.0004). Conclusion:A high prevalence of Gardnerella vaginalis was found and its association with cytological abnormalities, especially in sexually active women.

Introducción:Gardnerella vaginalis facilita la infección por el virus del papiloma humano (VPH). Objetivo: Verificar la asociación entre anormalidades citológicas y la presencia de Gardnerella vaginalis en frotis cervicovaginales enviadas al Laboratorio Clínico de la Pontificia Universidad Católica de Goiás (LAC/PUC Goiás) estratificadas por grupo de edad. Método: Estudio transversal realizado en LAC/PUC Goiás desde enero de 2013 hasta diciembre de 2015. Para el análisis estadístico, la edad variable se clasificó como ≤39 años y >40 años, utilizando el programa IBM SPSS Statistics (Versión 2.0, 2011®) para la prueba de chi-cuadrado (X²), con un intervalo de confianza del 95% y p <0,05. Resultados: Se analizaron 4.558 exámenes citopatológicos. La prevalencia de Lactobacillusspp. con 46,97%. Los patógenos como Gardnerella vaginalis fueron 79,6%, Candidaspp. 16,8%, Trichomonas vaginalis 2,2%, Herpes simplex 0,4%, y Chlamydia trachomatis 0,1%. Se observaron anormalidades citológicas en 9,1%, con células escamosas atípicas de significado indeterminado (ASC-US) 2,57%, lesión intraepitelial escamosa de bajo grado (LSIL) 1,78%, células escamosas atípicas de significación indeterminada no pueden excluir lesión intraepitelial (ASC-H) 3,52%, lesión intraepitelial escamosa de alto grado (HSIL) 1,08%, células endocervicales atípicas, favor neoplásico (AGC-NEO) 0,22% y carcinoma 0,02%. Hubo una asociación significativa entre anormalidades citológicas severas y mujeres >40 años OR 3,01 (IC 95% 2,0-4,58) (p<0,0001). Las mujeres ≤40 años mostraron la presencia de Gardnerella vaginalis (p<0,0004). Conclusión: Se encontró una alta prevalencia de Gardnerella vaginalis y su asociación con anomalías citológicas, especialmente en mujeres sexualmente activas.

Protocolo Brasileiro para Infecções Sexualmente Transmissíveis 2020: infecções que causam corrimento vaginal / Brazilian Protocol for Sexually Transmitted Infections 2020: infections causing vaginal discharge / Protocolo Brasileño para Infecciones de Transmisión Sexual 2020: infecciones que causan flujo vaginal

O tema corrimento vaginal é um dos capítulos que compõem o Protocolo Clínico e Diretrizes Terapêuticas para Atenção Integral às Pessoas com Infecções Sexualmente Transmissíveis, publicado pelo Ministério da Saúde do Brasil em 2020. Tal documento foi elaborado com base em evidências científicas e validado em discussões com especialistas. Neste artigo, são apresentados aspectos epidemiológicos e clínicos relacionados às situações de corrimento vaginal, bem como orientações aos gestores e profissionais de saúde na triagem, diagnóstico e tratamento desses agravos, que constituem uma das principais queixas entre mulheres que procuram serviços de saúde e que podem ser causados por fatores infecciosos ou não infecciosos. Além disso, são apresentadas informações sobre estratégias para as ações de vigilância, prevenção e controle, a fim de promover o conhecimento do problema e a oferta de assistência de qualidade e tratamento efetivo.

The topic of vaginal discharge is one of the chapters of the Clinical Protocol and Therapeutic Guidelines for Comprehensive Care for People with Sexually Transmitted Infections, published by the Brazilian Ministry of Health in 2020. The chapter has been developed based on scientific evidence and validated in discussions with specialists. This article presents epidemiological and clinical aspects related to vaginal discharge conditions, as well as guidelines for health service managers and health professionals about screening, diagnosing and treating these conditions, which are one of the main complaints among women seeking health services, and which may be caused by infectious or non-infectious factors. In addition, information is presented on strategies for surveillance, prevention and control actions, in order to promote knowledge of the problem and provision of quality care and effective treatment.

El tema del flujo vaginal es uno de los capítulos del Protocolo Clínico y Directrices Terapéuticas para la Atención Integral a las Personas con Infecciones de Transmisión Sexual, publicado por el Ministerio de Salud de Brasil en 2020. El documento fue desarrollado en base a evidencia científica y validado en discusiones con especialistas. En este artículo se presentan aspectos epidemiológicos y clínicos relacionados a las situaciones de flujo vaginal, así como pautas para gestores y profesionales de la salud en el cribado, diagnóstico y tratamiento de esas complicaciones, que son una de las principales quejas entre las mujeres que buscan servicios de salud y que pueden ser causadas por factores infecciosos o no infecciosos. Además, se presenta información sobre estrategias para acciones de vigilancia, prevención y control, con el fin de promover la comprensión del problema y la oferta de asistencia de calidad y tratamiento eficaz.

Infecciones cervicovaginales en exudados vaginales / Cervicovaginal infections in vaginal exudates

Introducción: Se desconocen las características de las infecciones cervicovaginales, diagnosticadas mediante el exudado vaginal, sobre todo en mujeres cubanas de mediana edad. En otras etapas del ciclo vital femenino, sí se han realizado estos estudios. Esta información es importante, fundamentalmente para realizar acciones de promoción de salud. Objetivo: Determinar las características de las infecciones cervicovaginales más frecuentes diagnosticadas mediante el exudado vaginal. Método: Se realizó un estudio transversal en 1118 mujeres. Se recogió la edad (agrupada en 20 - 44 años y 45 y más años), los resultados del exudado vaginal, la percepción de secreción vaginal o la ausencia de esta (asintomáticas) y los microorganismos identificados en el exudado. Resultados: El 49,9 por ciento de exudados vaginales fueron positivos a vaginosis bacteriana, Cándidas albicans, Trichomonas vaginalis y desequilibro en la ecología vaginal. El 45 por ciento de las pacientes no tenían secreción vaginal, es decir, estaban asintomáticas. Conclusión: Las infecciones cervicovaginales se caracterizaron por ser de elevada frecuencia, usualmente asintomáticas, con predominio de vaginosis bacteriana, candidiasis y trichomoniasis(AU)

ABSTRACT Introduction: The characteristics of cervicovaginal infections diagnosed by vaginal exudate are unknown, especially in middle-aged Cuban women. At other stages of the female life cycle, these studies have been done. Due to the importance of this information, to carry out health promotion actions, this research was carried out. Objective: To determine the characteristics of the most frequent cervicovaginal infections diagnosed by vaginal exudate. Method: A cross-sectional study was conducted in 1118 women. Age (grouped into 20-44 years and 45 and over), the results of positive vaginal discharge, the perception of presence or not of vaginal discharge (asymptomatic) and the microorganisms identified in the discharge were collected. Results: 49.9 percent of vaginal exudates were positive for bacterial vaginosis, Candidas albicans, Trichomonas vaginalis and imbalance in vaginal ecology. 45 percent of the patients had no vaginal discharge, that is, they were asymptomatic. Conclusion: Cervicovaginal infections were characterized by being of high frequency, usually asymptomatic, with prevalence of bacterial vaginosis, candidiasis and trichomoniasis(AU)

Prevalência de vaginoses bacterianas em pacientes que realizaram bacterioscopia de secreção vaginal / Prevalence of bacterial vaginosis in patients who underwent bacterioscopy of vaginal secretion

Introdução: a microbiota da região genital feminina pode sofrer alterações ocasionando patologias, como as vaginoses bacterianas (VB). A VB tem como principal sintoma o corrimento genital, de coloração branca ou acinzentada com odor desagradável. Devido as grandes complicações que essa doença ocasiona, como infertilidade, abortos e o aumento do risco de adquirir HIV, ela é considerada um grave problema de saúde pública. Objetivo: verificar a prevalência de vaginoses bacterianas em pacientes que realizaram bacterioscopia de secreção vaginal em um laboratório particular de Aracaju, em Sergipe. Metodologia: trata-se de um estudo do tipo documental, retrospectivo e transversal, com base na análise dos protocolos de identificação das mulheres que realizaram bacterioscopia de secreção vaginal, no período de janeiro a dezembro de 2017. Resultados: foram analisados 434 protocolos, sendo que 80 (18,4%) das amostras foram positivas para VB e 354 (81,6%) negativas. Nas positivas, o agente infeccioso mais prevalente foi a Candida sp. (56,3%), depois Gardnerella vaginallis (35%) e ainda houve coinfeccção (8,7%). Na faixa etária, a prevalência maior foi observada no grupo de menores que 20 anos (9,66%). Dentre os sintomas, o corrimento foi mais frequente (28,75%). No estudo foi descrito utilização do DIU pelas mulheres (1,25%). Conclusão: nota-se um problema de saúde da mulher referente as VB, o qual deve ter um maior controle e regressão da sua prevalência. Faz-se necessário investimentos em políticas públicas, na saúde, voltadas a avaliação dos comportamentos de riscos, a fim de promover uma prevenção das infecções vaginais, visando a redução dos agravos

Introduction: the microbiota of the female genital area can change causing pathologies, such as bacterial vaginosis (BV). The main symptom of BV is vaginal discharge, of white or grayish color with an unpleasant odor. Due to the great complications that this disease causes, such as infertility, abortion and the increased risk of acquiring HIV, it is considered a serious public health problem. Objective: to verify the prevalence of bacterial vaginosis in patients who underwent bacterioscopy of vaginal secretion in a particular laboratory here in Aracaju, Sergipe. Methodology: This is a documentary, retrospective and cross-sectional study, based on the analysis of identification records of women who underwent bacterioscopy of vaginal secretion, from January to December, 2017. Results: 434 samples were analyzed, and 80 (18.4%) of them were positive for BV and 354 (81.6%) negative. In the positive, the most prevalent infectious agent was Candida sp. (56.3%), followed by Gardnerella vaginallis (35%) and coinfection (8.7%). About the age of the group, the highest prevalence was observed in the group by younger than 20 years (9.66%). Among the symptoms, discharge was the most frequente (28.75%). In the study, IUD use by women was described (1.25%). Conclusion: women health problems related to BV are noted, which should have a greater control and regression of their prevalence. It is necessary to invest in health public policy, directed to evaluation of risk behaviors, in order to promote prevention of vaginal infections, aiming at the reduction of diseases.

Reactional changes in short-term levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system (lng-ius) use

SUMMARY OBJECTIVE: To evaluate endocervical and vaginal environment changes in women using a levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system (LNG-IUS). METHODS: A quasi-experimental study included sixty women who had an LNG-IUS inserted in the Family Planning Clinic of UNICAMP between April and November of 2016. Women in reproductive age, non-pregnant, without the use of antibiotics and contraceptives seeking for LNG-IUS insertion were selected for this study. All women were evaluated with regard to vaginal and endocervical pH, vaginal and endocervical Gram-stained bacterioscopy, and Pap-smear before and two months after LNG-IUS insertion. Clinical aspects such as cervical mucus, vaginal discharge, and cervical ectopy were also observed. RESULTS: After LNG-IUS insertion, there was an increase in the following parameters: endocervical pH>4.5 (p=0.02), endocervical neutrophil amount (p<0.0001), vaginal cytolysis (p=0.04). There was a decrease in vaginal discharge (p=0.01). No statistically significant changes were found in vaginal pH, neutrophils amount in the vaginal mucosa, vaginal discharge appearance, vaginal candidiasis, bacterial vaginosis, vaginal coccobacillary microbiota, cervical mucus appearance, or cervical ectopy size. CONCLUSIONS: Short-term LNG-IUS use did not increase vulvovaginal candidiasis or bacterial vaginosis, and led to diminished vaginal discharge. Notwithstanding, this device promoted reactional changes in the vaginal and endocervical environment, without modification on cervical ectopy size.

RESUMO OBJETIVO: Avaliar as alterações do ambiente endocervical e vaginal em mulheres usuárias de sistema intrauterino liberador de levonorgestrel (SIU-LNG). MÉTODOS: Um estudo quase-experimental incluiu 60 mulheres que inseriram o SIU-LNG na Clínica de Planejamento Familiar da UNICAMP entre abril e novembro de 2016. Mulheres em idade reprodutiva, não gestantes, sem uso de antibióticos e contraceptivos, em busca pela inserção do SIU-LNG, foram selecionadas para este estudo. Todas as mulheres foram avaliadas quanto ao pH vaginal e endocervical, bacterioscopia vaginal e endocervical por coloração de Gram, exame de Papanicolau antes e dois meses após a inserção de SIU-LNG. Aspectos clínicos como muco cervical, corrimento vaginal e ectopia cervical também foram observados. RESULTADOS: Após a inserção do SIU-LNG houve aumento nos seguintes parâmetros: pH endocervical >4,5 (p=0,02), quantidade de neutrófilos endocervicais (p<0,0001), citolise vaginal (p=0,04). Houve diminuição do conteúdo vaginal (p=0,01). Não foram encontradas alterações estatisticamente significativas no pH vaginal, na quantidade de neutrófilos na mucosa vaginal, apecto do corrimento vaginal, candidíase vaginal, vaginose bacteriana, microbiota cocobacilar vaginal, aparência de muco cervical ou tamanho da ectopia cervical. CONCLUSÃO: O uso do SIU-LNG em curto prazo não aumentou a candidíase vulvovaginal ou a vaginose bacteriana, levou à diminuição do conteúdo vaginal. No entanto, este dispositivo promoveu mudanças reacionais no ambiente vaginal e endocervical, sem modificação no tamanho da ectopia cervical.

Correlation between high-risk HPV infection and bacterial vaginosis in gynecological outpatient department / 中国基层医药

Objective@#To explore the correlation between high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV) infection and bacterial vaginosis in gynecological outpatient department.@*Methods@#From January 2017 to June 2017, 1 563 cases of gynecologic outpatient who underwent vaginal microecological examination and HPV examination in Jiaxing Maternal and Child Health Care Center were selected to analyze the infection rate of high-risk HPV in different age groups.The 1 563 patients were divided into high-risk HPV positive group and negative group.The vaginal microecological indicators and the incidence of bacterial vaginosis in the two groups were analyzed.@*Results@#Among the 1 563 patients, 385 caes were positive for high-risk HPV, the positive rate was 24.63%.The positive rate of high-risk HPV infection increased with age.There wereno statistically significant differences in pH > 4.5, hydrogen peroxide and leukocyte esterase positive rate between high-risk HPV positive group and negative group (40.52% vs.59.48%, 59.74% vs.40.26%, 51.17% vs.48.83%)(χ2=1.625, 0.188, 3.61, all P>0.05), but there was statistically significant difference in sialidase positive rate (12.47% vs.87.53%)(χ2=39.015, P<0.05). The incidence rate of bacterial vaginosis and the positive rate of microecology in the high-risk HPV positive group were significantly higher than those in the negative group (12.73% vs.6.03%, 8.83% vs.3.65%)(χ2=18.377, 16.629, all P<0.05).@*Conclusion@#High-risk HPV infection is closely related to female bacterial vaginitis, so it is necessary to pay more attention to the treatment of bacterial vaginosis, restore the balance of vaginal microenvironment, and enhance the vaginal and cervical immunity to further reduce high-risk HPV infection.

Attach importance to another form of the vaginal microecological balance disorder / 中华检验医学杂志

Cytolytic vaginosis(CV)is a set of clinical syndrome, which is caused by excessive growth of lactobacillus and imbalance of vaginal microecology.The clinical features of CV were often similar to vulvovaginal candidasis,and they were easily misdiagnosed CV is not uncommon clinically.Therefore,in order to diagnose CV rapidly and accurately,vaginal microecology should be evaluated by certain laboratory examinations, such as direct wet mount combined with smear staining.Which can avoid misdiagnosis and improve the efficiency of diagnosis and treatment.(Chin J Lab Med,2018,41:254-255)

Frequência de sífilis em gestantes / Frequency of syphilis in pregnant women

O cuidado primário tem um papel importante na prevenção e no tratamento de doenças infecciosas, pois no contexto gestacional algumas dessas doenças podem causar complicações graves ao recém-nascido, levando inclusive à morte fetal. Os autores apresentam um estudo transversal em que participaram 299 gestantes no Serviço Pré-natal em Juiz de Fora e 66 gestantes oriundas do serviço de obstetrícia da Faculdade de Medicina de Barbacena. A idade média foi de 24,60 anos. Houve sífilis em ambos os grupos, mas não houve casos de sífilis congênita. Os autores concluíram que a frequência de sífilis apresentou distribuição uniforme em ambos os serviços e sugerem medidas adequadas de controle e tratamento de gestantes. (AU)

Primary care has an important role in the prevention and treatment of infectious diseases since in the gestational context some of these diseases can cause severe complications to the newborn, including fetal death. This is a cross-sectional study assessing 299 pregnant women who attended the Pre-Natal Service in Juiz de Fora and 66 pregnant women who attended the Obstetrics Service of Barbacena School of Medicine. The average age was 24.60 years old. There was syphilis in both groups, but there were no cases of congenital syphilis. The authors concluded that the frequency of syphilis had a uniform distribution among both services and suggest adequate measures of control and treatment of pregnant women. (AU)

Probiotics in the Prevention and Treatment of Postmenopausal Vaginal Infections: Review Article.

Bacterial vaginosis (BV) and complicated vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) are frequently occurring vaginal infections in postmenopausal women, caused by an imbalance in vaginal microflora. Postmenopausal women suffer from decreased ovarian hormones estrogen and progesterone. A normal, healthy vaginal microflora mainly comprises Lactobacillus species (spp.), which act beneficially as a bacterial barrier in the vagina, interfering with uropathogens. During premenopausal period, estrogen promotes vaginal colonization by lactobacilli that metabolizing glycogen and producing lactic acid, and maintains intravaginal health by lowering the intravaginal pH level. A lower vaginal pH inhibits uropathogen growth, preventing vaginal infections. Decreased estrogen secretion in postmenopausal women depletes lactobacilli and increases intravaginal pH, resulting in increased vaginal colonization by harmful microorganisms (e.g., Enterobacter, Escherichia coli, Candida, and Gardnerella). Probiotics positively effects on vaginal microflora composition by promoting the proliferation of beneficial microorganisms, alters the intravaginal microbiota composition, prevents vaginal infections in postmenopausal. Probiotics also reduce the symptoms of vaginal infections (e.g., vaginal discharge, odor, etc.), and are thus helpful for the treatment and prevention of BV and VVC. In this review article, we provide information on the intravaginal mechanism of postmenopausal vaginal infections, and describes the effectiveness of probiotics in the treatment and prevention of BV and VVC.

Analysis on bacterial vaginosis and mycoplasma infection status in female patients with infertility / 重庆医学

Objective To investigate the bacterial vaginosis(BV) and mycoplasma infection status in female patients with infertility.Methods The vaginal discharge samples were collected from 541 female patients with infertility in the gynecological department of the Hainan Provincial People's Hospital from June to December 2013.The BV detection,mycoplasma culture and drug susceptibility test were simultaneously conducted.Results The mycoplasma culture positive rate was 44.5％ (241/541),in which ureaplasma mycoplasma (UU) had the highest detection rate,there were 223 cases ofinfection with the positive rate of 41.2 ％,there were 5 cases of mycoplasma hominis(Mh) infection with the positive rate of 0.9 ％,13 cases were UU + Mh mixed positive with the positive rate of 2.4％.BV infection was in 325 cases with the positive rate of 60.1％ (325/541).Among 241 cases of mycoplasma positive,the BV detection rate was 70.1％ (169/241),while among 300 cases of mycoplasma negative,the BV detection rate was 52.0％ (156/300),the BV detection rate had statistical difference between the mycoplasma positive group and mycoplasma negative group,the difference was statistically significant (P＜0.05).Ofloxacin in fluoroquinolones had the highest drug resistance,the sensitivity was only 7.1％.Josamycin had the lowest drug resistance,accounting for 3.7 ％.Conclusion The female patients with infertility is closely correlated with BV and mycoplasma infection.Therefore BV and mycoplasma census should be strengthened to achieve early diagnosis and early treatment.Mycoplasma drug susceptibility test shows that doxycycline,minocycline and josamycin have the highest sensitivity,which can be used as the first selection drugs for clinical doctor.

Probiotics in the Prevention and Treatment of Postmenopausal Vaginal Infections: Review Article

Bacterial vaginosis (BV) and complicated vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) are frequently occurring vaginal infections in postmenopausal women, caused by an imbalance in vaginal microflora. Postmenopausal women suffer from decreased ovarian hormones estrogen and progesterone. A normal, healthy vaginal microflora mainly comprises Lactobacillus species (spp.), which act beneficially as a bacterial barrier in the vagina, interfering with uropathogens. During premenopausal period, estrogen promotes vaginal colonization by lactobacilli that metabolizing glycogen and producing lactic acid, and maintains intravaginal health by lowering the intravaginal pH level. A lower vaginal pH inhibits uropathogen growth, preventing vaginal infections. Decreased estrogen secretion in postmenopausal women depletes lactobacilli and increases intravaginal pH, resulting in increased vaginal colonization by harmful microorganisms (e.g., Enterobacter, Escherichia coli, Candida, and Gardnerella). Probiotics positively effects on vaginal microflora composition by promoting the proliferation of beneficial microorganisms, alters the intravaginal microbiota composition, prevents vaginal infections in postmenopausal. Probiotics also reduce the symptoms of vaginal infections (e.g., vaginal discharge, odor, etc.), and are thus helpful for the treatment and prevention of BV and VVC. In this review article, we provide information on the intravaginal mechanism of postmenopausal vaginal infections, and describes the effectiveness of probiotics in the treatment and prevention of BV and VVC.

Infecciones vaginales en pacientes gestantes de una clínica de alta complejidad de Medellín-Colombia / Vaginal infections in pregnant patients of a high complexity clinic from Medellín-Colombia

Objetivo: describir características de las infecciones vaginales en pacientes gestantes.La gestación constituye un factor predisponente para infecciones vaginales, las cuales pueden generar consecuencias deletéreas para la madre y el feto. Materiales y métodos: estudio transversal, descriptivo. Población compuesta por gestantes condiagnóstico de infección vaginal en una clínica de alta complejidad durante enero de 2011 a junio de 2012. Se recolectó información sociodemográfica, clínica, microbiológica y terapéutica de las historias clínicas de las pacientes. Resultados: se incluyeron 67 pacientes, con una mediana de edad de 23 (RIQ 21-29) años; el 40% era primigestante y el 66% nulípara. Únicamente el 15% de las infecciones vaginales se presentaron en el primer trimestre gestacional. Los síntomas más frecuentemente referidos fueron: flujo vaginal (59.7%), síntomas urinarios bajos (26.9%) y prurito vulvar (23.9%); los principales hallazgos al examen físico fueron flujo (79.1%) y fetidez (16.4%) vaginal. En el 67,2% de los casos fue ordenada la realización del directo y gram de flujo vaginal, de los cuales, el 64,4% se realizó intrahospitalariamente. La reacción leucocitaria estuvo presente en la totalidad de las pacientes y en el 90% fue de moderada a abundante.Ocho de cada 10 pacientes presentó blastoconidias y pseudomicelios. El diagnóstico microbiológico más frecuente fue Candidiasis vulvovaginal (41.4%), seguido por Vaginosis bacteriana (24.1%). Conclusión: las infecciones vaginales constituyen una patología con sintomatología frecuente, la cual se presenta generalmente en la segunda mitad del embarazo, siendo Candida spp. el agente etiológico más común.

Objective: to describe the characteristics of vaginal infections in pregnant patients. Pregnancy is a predisposing factor for vaginal infections, which can lead to deleterious consequences for mother and fetus. Materials and methods: a cross-sectional study. Population consists in pregnant patients diagnosed with vaginal infection in a high complexity clinic, January 2011 to June 2012. Sociodemographic, clinical, microbiologicaland therapeutic information were collected from the clinical histories of the patients. Results: 67 patients were included, with a median age of 23 (IQR 21-29) years; 40%were in their first pregnancy and 66% were nulliparous. Only 15% of vaginal infectionsoccurred in the first trimester of pregnancy. The most frequently reported symptomswere vaginal discharge (59.7 %), lower urinary tract symptoms (26.9 %) and vulvarpruritus (23.9 %); the main physical findings were vaginal discharge (79.1 %) and vaginalstench (16.4 %). In 67.2% of cases were ordered the direct and gram of vaginaldischarge, of which 64.4% were performed during hospitalization. Leukocyte reactionwas present in all patients and in 90 % was moderate to abundant. 8 out of 10 patientshad blastoconidia and pseudomycelia. The most common microbiological diagnose was vulvovaginal candidiasis (41.4 %), followed by bacterial vaginosis (24.1 %). Conclusion: vaginal infections are a condition with frequent symptoms, which usually occursin the second half of pregnancy, being the Candida spp. the most common etiology.

The analysis of genital tract infection in 1 146 patients / 中国基层医药

Objective To analyze the distribution of pathogens in female genital tract for clinical prevention and treatment in female.Methods 1 146 gynecological out -patients were accepted vaginal Wulian combined detec-tion of micro of vaginal secretions.Results Among 1 146 gynecological patients,262 gynecological patients were diagnose as Bacterical Vaginosis(BV)positive,accounted for 22.86% of all patiemnts,114 patients with fungal vagi-nitis,accounted for 12.30% of all patients,49 patients with trichomonas vaginitis,accounted for 3.58%.Further anal-ysis showed that BV,Candida mother mould and trichomonad infection rate reduced with the increase of age,between 20 -30 childbearing women with highest infected rate,and of childbearing women had the secondly infected rate. There were significant differences among these groups(χ2 =21.515,19.811,8.832,all P <0.01 ).Conclusion 20 -30 childbearing women with the highest rate of BV,Candida mother mould,BV was the main infection factors among these,trichomonad infection was the highest and it was also the main reason of infertility.