Vaginal fluid pH as a screening test for vaginitis.
OBJECTIVE
To assess how effective the pH test can detect infectious vaginitis.


METHODS
Ambulatory gynecological patients attending the gynecological out-patient department of Srinagarind Hospital from May 1 to July 31, 1997 were assessed for vaginitis by history, overall physical examination and vaginal examination. Specimens were collected for microbiological examination and measurement of pH level.


RESULTS
Among 422 women recruited, a vaginal fluid pH level greater than 4.5 was found in 149 (35.3%) cases. The vaginal fluid pH as a screening test for infectious vaginitis showed a sensitivity of 49.7% (95% C.I.: 42.6-56.9). When using vaginal fluid pH combined with clinical symptoms and signs to screen for vaginitis the sensitivity was 67.5% (95% C.I.: 60.4-73.9). If a pH test was used to screen for BV, its sensitivity was 73.4% (95% C.I.; 60.7-83.3). Using a pH test in combination with clinical symptoms and signs of vaginitis to screen for BV, its sensitivity was 81.3% (95% C.I.: 69.2-89.5).


CONCLUSIONS
Vaginal fluid pH combined with clinical symptoms and signs had a considerably high sensitivity to screen for BV.
Thinkhamrop
J
J
Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Khon Kaen University, Thailand.
Lumbiganon
P
P
Thongkrajai
P
P
Chongsomchai
C
C
Pakarasang
M
M
D000328:Adult; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D006863:Hydrogen-Ion Concentration; D008875:Middle Aged; D012680:Sensitivity and Specificity; D019522:Vaginal Discharge / Q000378:metabolism*; D014627:Vaginitis / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000378:metabolism; D016585:Vaginosis, Bacterial / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000378:metabolism