Comparison of clinical and paraclinical diagnosis of vulvovaginal candidiasis in females referred to hospitals in Hamedan city

Abstract &nbsp; Background and Objective: Vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) often refers to yeast infection, which is a common gynecologic problem, affecting 75% of women during their lifetimes. This study was conducted to evaluate clinical and paraclinical diagnosis of VVC in females. &nbsp; Material and Methods: In this cross-sectional study, Vulvovaginal samples were collected from 350 women suspected vulvovaginitis verified by gynecologist. After checking microscopic fungal elements, samples were cultured on Chrom Candida Agar and Sabourraud Dextrose Agar. Using a checklist, their personal, social and hygienic status were&nbsp; evaluated. &nbsp; Results: The rate of infection was 21.1%&nbsp;&nbsp; with wet mount , 21.7% with staining and 26% with culture procedure. Physicians' diagnoses were not&nbsp; in line with para-clinical experiments in 80.2 percent (P<0.05). &nbsp; Conclusion: based on the results , vulvovaginal candidiasis can only be diagnosed by using clinical criteria related to vulvovaginal symptoms and Candida cultures. This matter can be helpful to prevent and reduce the side effects of some unnecessary medications. Keywords: Candida Albicans, Clinical Experiments, Vaginitis, Para- Clinical Experiments &nbsp;