Microbiological Profile of Leukorrhoea in Women of the Reproductive Age Group

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Leukorrhoea develops due to physiological and pathological conditions among women of reproductive age.Due to its presentation, determining the source and cause of discharge is crucial, therefore, differential diagnosis and microbiological prole would aid in its management. AIM: To identify etiological agents and estimate their proportions in leucorrhoea among women of reproductive age for better treatment of genital tract infection. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The study was conducted at the OBG Department of a tertiary medical hospital from January 2018 to December 2018. Vaginal swabs were collected sterilely from 152 patients complaining of abnormal vaginal discharge or any other associated ailment. Samples were processed for culture as per standard recommendations. Bacterial vaginosis(BV)was diagnosed by clinical composite criteria (Amsel's criteria) and Gram stain (Nugent's score). RESULTS: Among the 152 patients, infectious etiology was observed in 65.8%, normal ora in 28.9% & no growth in 5.3% in culture media. BV (44%) had higher prevalence followed by Candidiasis (26%) and Trichomoniasis (2%). Amsel's criteria identied 28.9% of BV compared to Nugent's criteria (25%).A considerable increase in non-albicans Candida species (53.8%) was observed compared to Candia albicans(46.2%). Other organisms isolated included, Acinetobacter spp. (3.6%), Pseudomonas spp. (14.3%), E. coli (39.3%), Klebsiella pneumoniae (10.7%), MSSA (10.7%), Enterococcus spp. (21.4%). CONCLUSION:Bacterial vaginosis was the prominent cause of infection in leukorrhoea among the women of reproductive age. Timely diagnosis and appropriate management avert serious complications and risks of ectopic pregnancy, infertility, chronic pelvic pain, and abdominal discomfort.