Trichomonal vaginitis

ANSWER: C


Trichomonal vaginitis usually causes a yellowish discharge which sometimes has a frothy appearance. Colpitis macularis (strawberry cervix) is often present. Monilial vaginitis classically causes a cheesy, whitish exudate with associated vaginal itching and burning. There may be vaginal and vulvar erythema and edema, but colpitis macularis is not a feature. Bacterial vaginosis is characterized by a grayish discharge with few other physical signs or symptoms, if any. Chlamydia may cause a yellowish cervical discharge and symptoms of pelvic inflammatory disease or, alternatively, may be totally asymptomatic. Herpes simplex type 2 causes ulcerations on the vulva and vaginal mucosa which are exquisitely tender, often with marked surrounding erythema and edema.


Ref: Scott JR, Di Saia PI, Hammond CB, et al (eds): Danforth's Obstetrics and Gynecology, ed 8. Lippincott Williams & Wilkins, 1999, pp 585-586.

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