Bacterial Vaginosis & Yeast-Provincial
Discipline
Microbiology
Overview
Description
- Bacterial vaginosis (BV) and yeast infections are common causes of vaginitis. These are diagnosed through microscopic examination of vaginal discharge.
Ordering recommendations
- First line test for patients experiencing symptoms of vaginitis
Specimen Information
Specimen types accepted
- Vaginal swab
Specimen collection container
- Swab submitted in liquid Amies media (Eswab®)
Collection procedure
- Use a speculum without lubricant
- Collect secretions from the mucosa, high in the vaginal canal
- Carefully place the swab in the collection device
Required volume
Transport and stability
- Swab specimens in Eswab® transport media can be transported at room temperature or refrigerated at 4°C
Testing Information
Relevant clinical history
- Laboratory diagnosis of bacterial vaginosis has not been validated for pre-pubescent or post-menopausal patients. Interpretation of results in these patient groups should take this into account and alternative diagnoses should be considered.
- Detection of yeast by microscopy is the test of choice to diagnose yeast infections. However, it is less sensitive than culture. Persistent symptoms in the absence of yeast detected by direct microscopy and alternative diagnoses is an indication for vaginal culture.
Clinical information
- All specimens will be tested at the nearest microbiology laboratory
Performance
Methodology
- Direct microscopic examination is scored using Nugent criteria (N-score) for interpretation
Maximum laboratory time
- Turnaround time of 24-72 hours from receipt in lab
Specimen retention time
| RGH/Pasqua |
|
| Saskatoon |
|
Last Updated: September 18, 2024