Prevalence of candida vaginits among symptomatic patients in kerman

Abstract

Abstract Background: Candida vaginitis is one of the major factors which causes vaginitis infections. Objective: To provide information on the prevalance of candida vaginits in Kerman and its relation to some factors. Method :In a cross – sectional study , 500 patients attending the womens’ clinic of Bahonar Hospital in Kerman in 1997 and complaining of vaginitis symptoms were selected consecutively .A sample of their vaginal discharge was cultured on Nikerson medium and a questionare was completed based on their demographic characteristics , pregnancy , signs and symptoms of the disease, drug consumption and diabetes melitus. Findings: The results indicated 19.8% prevalence of the disease. Among positive cultures, 75% were albicans and 25% nonalbicans spicies.There was a significant statistical sensitivity and high specificity. Conclusion: More ethiologic investigation is recommended due to the high prevalence of candida in Kerman. Frequent occurence of nonalbicans spicies and low sensitivity of clinical diagnosis demands specific culturing method particularly in chronic and recurrent cases.