A wet smear criterion for bacterial vaginosis.
OBJECTIVE
To evaluate a simpler criterion for bacterial vaginosis than the recommended criterion of Amsel.


METHODS
Cross-sectional study comparing diagnostic data with a recommended standard.


METHODS
Danish general practice.


METHODS
595 non-pregnant women aged 15-49 years who were gynaecologically examined, were divided into two groups in accordance with a complaint of vaginal discharge.


METHODS
The associations of pH > 4.5, homogeneity, amine odour, clue cells, and wet smear assessment of predominance of lactobacilli, Gardnerella vaginalis, motile rods with the criterion of Amsel.


RESULTS
The four components of Amsel showed a considerable variation of association. Predominance of GV was more highly associated than several of the components. The association of a wet smear criterion composed of the presence of clue cells in combination with predominance of Gardnerella vaginalis and absence of lactobacilli was superior to other combinations. In the group without a complaint of vaginal discharge, preceding screening with use of a pH-measurement seemed advantageous.


CONCLUSIONS
The wet smear criterion seems suitable for use in general practice. But before a definitive establishment, calculation of the reproducibility of interpretation of this criterion, preferably with a more explicit setting of the components, has to be carried out.
Schmidt
H
H
Hansen
J G
JG
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D003430:Cross-Sectional Studies; D005194:Family Practice; D005260:Female; D006194:Gardnerella vaginalis / Q000302:isolation & purification; D006801:Humans; D006863:Hydrogen-Ion Concentration; D007973:Leukorrhea / Q000382:microbiology; D008875:Middle Aged; D014626:Vaginal Smears; D016585:Vaginosis, Bacterial / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000382:microbiology