ASSESSMENT OF THE AMINE TEST COMPARED WITH GRAM STAIN IN THE DIAGNOSIS OF BACTERIAL VAGINOSIS

Abstract

Bacterial vaginosis is one of the commonest cause of vaginal discharge occurring in women attending obstetrics and gynecological clinics. It is responsible for approximately one third of all cases of vulvovaginitis in women in reproductive age. It is a clinical entity characterized by the

31 presence of at least 3 of 4 clinical criteria of Atnsel et al.< )

1. Homogeneous adherent discharge.

2. Vaginal pH >4.5.

3. Fishy odour on addition of 10% potassium hydroxide to the discharge.

4. Clue cells by microscopic examination.

Patients always present with malodorous vaginal discharge although

30-40% may be asymptomatic.<30