Document Type : Original Article
Authors
1
Department Microbiology and Immunology, Damietta Faculty of Medicine, Al-Azhar University, Damietta, Egypt.
2
Department Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Al-Azhar University, Cairo, Egypt.
3
Department Obstetrics and Gynecology, Damietta Faculty of Medicine, Al-Azhar University, Damietta, Egypt.
Abstract
Background: Vulvovaginal candidiasis [VVC] is a widespread gynecological issue affecting women globally. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of vaginal candidiasis among symptomatic pregnant and non-pregnant women as its relationship with predisposing factors of this infection.
Methods: This study was carried out on patients attending the outpatient clinic at Al-Azhar University Hospital at New Damietta from September 2023 to September 2024. The study group included 50 symptomatic pregnant women and 50 symptomatic non-pregnant women. High vaginal swabs were taken, and direct smears were stained with gram stain and cultured on Sabouraud’s dextrose agar plates. Germ tube test, culture on chromogenic agar, carbohydrate assimilation test, sugar fermentation test and growth at 45°C were done to differentiate between the different species of Candida. An anti-fungal sensitivity test was also done.
Results: In this study, Candida albicans was detected in 27[54.0%] and 36 [72.0%], Candida krusei in 18 [36%] and 13 [26%] and Candida tropicalis in only one case in non-pregnant and pregnant women, respectively, with no significant differences between both groups. Again, no significant difference has been found between pregnant and non-pregnant women in the sensitivity to nystatin, with most isolates being sensitive to nystatin [58% in non-pregnant and 70% in pregnant women]. A significant difference has been found across Candida species for sensitivity to nystatin, itraconazole, and fluconazole [p<0.001]. C. albicans showed a high level of sensitivity [98.4%] to nystatin, while C. krusei and C. tropicalis displayed higher resistance to nystatin [90.3% and 100%, respectively]. C. albicans showed higher resistance [87.3%] to itraconazole. On the other hand, C. krusei and C. tropicalis isolates were intermediately resistant to itraconazole [74.2%]. However, C. albicans were highly resistant to fluconazole [93.7%], most of the C. krusei isolates [83.9%] were sensitive, and C. tropicalis showed 100% sensitivity to this antibiotic.
Conclusion: The findings of this study indicate that vaginal candidiasis is more common in pregnant women compared to non-pregnant women. It is strongly recommended to conduct thorough investigations and provide timely treatment for vaginal infections to prevent potential complications.
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