Molecular Diagnosis of Vaginitis: Comparing Quantitative PCR and Microbiome Profiling Approaches to Current Microscopy Scoring

Vaginitis is often diagnosed by microscopy and limited to testing for bacterial vaginosis (BV), vulvovaginal candidiasis, and trichomoniasis. Approximately 10% of vaginal swabs are negative but designated “altered flora” by BV Nugent score, leaving clinicians unsure how to treat patients. Accurate and comprehensive vaginitis diagnostics are needed to direct treatment and reduce risks of recurrent or more severe infections.