What is Bacterial vaginosis?

an overgrowth of predominately anaerobic organisms in the vagina

What are the main clinical features of Bacterial vaginosis?

• vaginal discharge: 'fishy', offensive
• asymptomatic in 50%

How is Bacterial vaginosis diagnosed?

3 of the following 4 points should be present

• thin, white homogenous discharge
• clue cells on microscopy: stippled vaginal epithelial cells
• vaginal pH > 4.5
• positive whiff test (addition of potassium hydroxide results in fishy odour)

What is the management of Bacterial vaginosis?

if symptomatic: oral metronidazole for 5-7 days

What is the causative bacteria of Bacterial vaginosis?

Gardnerella vaginalis