Cervicovaginal Infections Research Articles

Contribution of qPCR to the diagnosis of cervico-vaginal infections at the Hôpital Principal de Dakar, Senegal

To determine the etiology of cervico-vaginal infections by cytobacteriology and the efficacy of qPCR for the diagnosis of sensitive strains such as Streptococcus agalactiae, Borrelia crocidurae, Chlamydia trachomatis, Neisseria gonorrhoeae and Treponema pallidum. This prospective cross-sectional study was performed between January and September 2021 in 346 women who were examined for cervico-vaginal infection at the Hôpital Principal de Dakar (HPD). Cytobacteriological (direct examination, agar culture) and molecular analyses were performed. Vaginal flora imbalances predominated, with a rate of 72.3%. The proportion of type IV vaginal flora was 46.5%. Of the 199 germs isolated, Candida albicans (25.1%), Ureaplasma urealyticum (17.6%), S. agalactiae (7.8%), Gardnerella vaginalis (6.6%) and nonalbicans Candida (5.5%) were the main pathogens responsible for cervico-vaginal infections in patients. Among women tested for mycoplasma, U. urealyticum was identified in 43.3% of patients. Among those tested for C. trachomatis, the proportion of infected women was low (4%). The prevalence of C. albicans was higher in pregnant women (38.3%) than in nonpregnant women (19.2%). S. agalactiae strains showed high resistance to certain beta-lactam antibiotics (pristinamycin 100%, gentamycin 100%, ampicillin 92.5% and cefalotin 85.2%) and to a glycopeptide antibiotic (vancomycin 100%). The Staphylococcus aureus strain had good sensitivity to antibiotics except gentamycin (100%) and kanamycin (100%). The enterobacteria tested were all sensitive to phenicols, carbapenems, cephalosporins and aminoglycosides. However, E. coli showed high resistance to tetracycline. The different methods showed low prevalences of C. trachomatis and N. gonorrhoeae, so comparisons Test RapidChlamydia/qPCR for C. trachomatis and culture/qPCR for N. gonorrhoeae were not possible. For S. agalactiae, on the other hand, qPCR was more advantageous than culture. The χ2 test showed a significant difference (Yates χ2 = 33.77 and p = 1-7) for the diagnosis of S. agalactiae. S. agalactiae qPCR had a sensitivity of 40.7%, a specificity of 94%, and positive and negative predictive values of 36.7% and 94.9% respectively, as well as a kappa = 0.33. The methods applied enabled us to identify the pathogens that cause cervicovaginal infections. The results suggest that qPCR may be an alternative, at least for the diagnosis of S. agalactiae. However, culture remains indispensable for studying antibiotic sensitivity. In order to improve patient care, molecular techniques need to be integrated into the HPD testing toolbox. To broaden the repertoire of pathogens to be diagnosed by qPCR, targeted comparison studies will be needed to increase the probability of encountering infected individuals.

Brachybacterium conglomeratum Is Associated with Cervicovaginal Infections and Human Papilloma Virus in Cervical Disease of Mexican Female Patients.

Brachybacterium conglomeratum, traditionally considered an environmental bacterium, has recently garnered attention for its potential involvement in human health. While prior research hinted at its pathogenic role in humans, our study aims to determine its prevalence and associations in diverse clinical contexts. We examined vaginal swabs from three distinct patient groups: patients with low-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions (LSIL), patients with cervicovaginal infections, and patients with a history of precancerous lesions undergoing follow-up. B. conglomeratum was present in all three patient groups, with the highest prevalence observed in the LSIL group. Statistically significant associations were primarily identified in the LSIL group, where B. conglomeratum was present in 60% of cases. Notably, the LSIL group exhibited coinfections with multiple high-risk oncogenotypes of human papillomavirus (HPV), suggesting potential synergistic effects, and understanding these microbial relationships and their influence on viral persistence, particularly with HPV, holds promise for mitigating HPV-related carcinogenesis. Furthermore, Gardnerella vaginalis and Atopobium vaginae were frequently detected in this group, along with Ureaplasma parvum as the predominant sexually transmitted bacterium. In all cases, B. conglomeratum was found in association with these microorganisms rather than as a sole pathogen. This coexistence underscores the intricate microbial interactions within cervicovaginal infections and precancerous lesions. This study marks the first report of B. conglomeratum prevalence in women with these clinical conditions.

Profile of Germs Involved in Cervico-Vaginal Infections in Women: Case of CHU of Mother and Child

Profile of Germs Involved in Cervico-Vaginal Infections in Women: Case of CHU of Mother and Child

Cervicovaginal detection of microorganisms in patients with type 2 diabetes

The purpose of the present investigation was to report the presence of cervicovaginal microorganisms most frequently found in cervicovaginal exfoliative smears (Papanicolaou) of patients with type 2 diabetes. Cervical-vaginal exfoliative cytologist was performed on an open population to all patients who attended from March 2010 to March 2020 in the within the framework of the early cancer detection program, gynecological interrogations were applied to 1587 patients who, after taking cell samples, were processed using the Papanicolaou staining technique modified by the same for subsequent microscopic diagnosis. Of the results obtained from the 1587 patients studied, 148 (9.32%) suffer from type 2 diabetes mellitus and of these only 130 (87.83%) showed at least one microorganism under microscopic observation, being Candida spp., the most found microorganism in samples from patients with type 2 diabetes. In conclusions, type 2 diabetes is a disease that predisposes to the appearance of microorganisms and cervicovaginal infections, particularly by Candida spp., therefore, there is a need for surveillance guidelines and efforts to reverse this disease and its complications.

Epidemiologic Evidence on the Role of Lactobacillus iners in Sexually Transmitted Infections and Bacterial Vaginosis: A Series of Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses.

Although Lactobacillus crispatus -dominated vaginal microbiotas are thought to protect against bacterial vaginosis (BV) and sexually transmitted infections, the role of Lactobacillus iners -dominated microbiotas is less clear. To better understand the impact of L. iners on common cervicovaginal infections, we conducted systematic reviews of the associations between L. iners compared with L. crispatus and 8 outcomes: Chlamydia trachomatis (Ct), BV, human papillomavirus, cervical dysplasia, human immunodeficiency virus, genital herpes, Trichomonas vaginalis , and Neisseria gonorrhoeae . On April 30, 2021, we searched PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science for epidemiologic studies of reproductive-age, nonpregnant, cisgender women that used marker gene sequencing to characterize vaginal microbiota composition and presented an effect estimate for the association between L. iners , compared with L. crispatus , and outcomes of interest. For outcomes with ≥3 eligible results presenting the same form of effect estimate, we conducted random-effects meta-analysis. The review protocol was registered prospectively (PROSPERO CRD42020214775). Six Ct studies were included in meta-analysis, which showed L. iners -dominated microbiotas were associated with 3.4-fold higher odds of Ct compared with L. crispatus -dominated microbiotas (95% confidence interval, 2.1-5.4). Three BV studies were included in meta-analysis, which indicated L. iners -dominated microbiotas were associated with 2.1-fold higher prevalence of BV compared with L. crispatus -dominated microbiotas (95% confidence interval, 0.9-4.9). Evidence was too sparse to perform meta-analysis for the remaining outcomes. L. iners -dominated vaginal microbiotas may be suboptimal compared with L. crispatus -dominated microbiotas for BV and Ct. These reviews highlight evidence gaps regarding the remaining outcomes and opportunities to improve epidemiologic rigor in vaginal microbiome science.

Cytomorphological spectrum of cervicovaginal infections and their prevalence with clinical correlation on pap smears: A three-year retrospective study

Cervical-vaginal infections are one of the most common infections seen in women of the reproductive age group. The important infectious agents in Gardnerella vaginalis, Candida, and Trichomonas vaginalis. Pap smear cytology is used as an important screening test for various epithelial cell abnormalities and cervical cancer. It is also useful in the diagnosis of various pathogenic microorganisms causing cervicovaginal infections. To determine the prevalence of cervicovaginal infections on Pap smears, and study their cytomorphology and clinical correlation. : This is a three-year retrospective study from June 2018 to May 2021 performed on conventional Pap smears in the Pathology laboratory of a Government hospital in North India. The prevalence of various cervicovaginal infections was determined and their cytomorphological spectrum was studied. The Bethesda System of classification was followed for reporting Pap smears. All the females attending Gynaecology OPD of the hospital with various complaints were included. Females with a history of cervical cancer and unsatisfactory samples were excluded from the study. Out of the total number1344 pap smears examined during the three years, 1291 (96.058%) were reported as NILM, remaining 53(3.044%) were diagnosed as epithelial cell abnormalities and cervical cancer. Among the 1291 cases of NILM, 421(32.61%) smears were positive for specific pathogenic microorganisms. Out of, 421 smears, examined,254(60.33%) were BV followed by136 (32.30%) of candida infection. Trichomonas contributed to 22(5.22%) cases, whereas in one case (0.23%) each of Actinomyces and HSV was seen. Mixed infection by Trichomonas and leptothrix was seen in 4(0.950%) cases and Candida and leptothrix contributed to 3(0.712%) cases. Cervico-vaginal infections are an important cause of morbidity in the reproductive age group. Cervical cytology is an invaluable method to diagnose these infections. About 90% of infections are caused by Bacterial Vaginosis and Candida. All women of the reproductive age group should undergo a Pap smear examination for timely diagnosis and proper management of cervicovaginal infections.

Modern investigation of cervico-vaginal infections (from microbiome disorders to pelvic inflammatory disease)

Vaginitis is the general term for disorders of the vagina caused by infection, inflammation, or changes in the normal vaginal flora, while cervicitis refers to inflammation of the uterine cervix. Symptoms of vaginitis include vaginal discharge, pruritus, odor, and/or discomfort. Women with cervicitis may have presenting symptoms such as purulent or mucopurulent (yellow) vaginal discharge, intermenstrual or postcoital bleeding, dysuria, vulvovaginal irritation and dyspareunia. The initial evaluation typically consists of a medical history, physical examination, microscopy examination of vaginal swab, and cervical tests for sexually transmitted infections. Evaluation of patient risk factors is important and should include a detailed discussion about the sexual history (number of partners, type of sexual activity, condom use, new sex partner, sex partner with a diagnosed sexually transmitted infection, sex partner with concurrent sex partners), vaginal hygiene (douching), and age (< 25). All women with symptoms suggestive of cervicitis or vaginitis undergo a physical examination that includes pelvic and vaginal evaluations. Vaginitis is often the result of the presence of infectious agents. The most common infections, such as bacterial vaginosis, Candida vulvovaginitis and trichomoniasis, account for over 90 percent of the vaginal infections. Cervicitis, typically acquired from sexually transmitted infections such as gonorrhea, chlamydia, and mycoplasma, can present with nonspecific vaginal symptoms.

ИСТМИКО-ЦЕРВИКАЛЬНАЯ НЕДОСТАТОЧНОСТЬ И ГЕНИТАЛЬНАЯ ИНФЕКЦИЯ

Despite the availability of diagnostics and modern methods of treatment, preterm birth with cervical insufficiency occurs in 44-57% of cases, while early preterm birth reaches 38,8%. To date, there is no doubt about the connection of premature labor and intraamnial inflammation, the frequency of which in cervical insufficiency reaches 80%. Most researchers are unanimous in the opinion that the ascending route of infection in intraamnial infection is a priority. It has been proven that a decrease in the absolute and relative amount of Lactobacillus spp., A change in the species composition of lactoflora or atypical vaginal colonization associated with premature birth and premature rupture of membranes. Conditionally pathogenic microorganisms of the vaginal biotope with an insufficient number of lactobacilli are capable of producing various proteases that destroy collagen, constituting the basis of connective tissue and determining the elasticity of the membranes, which allows us to consider cervicovaginal infections as one of the mechanisms of premature remodeling of the cervix and rupture of membranes. In that way, it is relevant to study the frequency and structure of genital infection in cervical insufficiency. The analysis of medical literature data, presented in the electronic libraries Elibrary and Pubmed for the last 10 years, devoted to the study of genital infection in cervical insufficiency. The issue of the relationship of cervicovaginal infections with premature remodeling of the cervix of the uterus was discussed, as well as studies on the role of intrauterine infection in the genesis of preterm labor. The results of scientific studies are presented, indicating both the direct influence of cervical incompetence on the risk of intraamnial infection and the root cause of genital infection in the pathogenesis of cervical insufficiency. Convincing data are given that timely diagnosis and treatment of violations of the vaginal biocenosis is one of the significant links in the prevention of premature birth. It is necessary to further study the pathogenetic relationship of cervicovaginal infections and cervical insufficiency.

Isthmico-cervical insufficiency associated with cervicovaginal infections: features of the course of pregnancy and perinatal outcomes

Introduction.The formation of isthmic-cervical insufficiency (ICI) in 80% is associated with intraamnial inflammation, this is the subject of discussion of new mechanisms of the pathogenesis of premature cervical remodeling. In this regard, it is of interest to study the relationship of ICS with intrauterine and cervicovaginal infections during pregnancy and their impact on the course and outcomes of pregnancy, which was the purpose of our study.Methods.A prospective cohort study included 100 pregnant women with ICI, taken by a continuous sample. All patients at the time of ICI manifestation underwent a comprehensive clinical and laboratory examination aimed at diagnosing cervicovaginal infections, according to e results of which the pregnant women were divided into 2 groups: the first group consisted of 72 women with ICI and cervicovaginal infections, the second group — 28 women with ICI and normocenosis of the vagina.Results.There were no significant differences between the compared groups in terms of the history of miscarriage, extragenital pathology and the frequency of complications of this pregnancy. Intrauterine infection during pregnancy in patients of group 1 was observed 4 times more often, being 55.6% (40) versus 14.3% (4) in group 2 (RR = 3.9, 95% CI = 1.5-9.9, p <0.001). Preterm birth was significantly more frequent in women of group 1, accounting for 62.5% (45), in group 2 — 28.6% (8). Perinatal mortality cases were observed only in group 1, amounting to 97‰ (7). In children from women in group 1, complications of the early neonatal period were more common, primarily due to prematurity. In addition, IUI in newborns was diagnosed 10 times more often in group 1, reaching 38.8% (26) of cases, compared with group 2 — 3.6% (1) (RR = 10.87, 95% CI = 1.55–76.22, p <0.001).Discussion.Perinatal outcomes in ICI associated with cervicovaginal infections are characterized by the presence of perinatal mortality, a higher incidence of preterm birth and IUI of the newborn than in women with ICI without cervicovaginal infection.

Clinico-pathological Analysis of Cervical Pap Smear in Patients Attending Gynecology OPD of a Medical College

Background: Cervical cancer ranks the most common cancer among Nepalese women. Cervical and vaginal infections constitute the most common gynecological problems. Through Pap smear screening, early diagnosis, follow up and treatment, morbidity and mortality can be reduced by 70% and 80% respectively. 
 Methods: This retrospective study was conducted to know the incidence of abnormal cervical epithelial lesions and cervico-vaginal infections. It was carried out in the Outpatient Department of Gynecology at Chitwan Medical College from April 2018 to March 2019. The data were collected and standard statistical analysis done using Microsoft Excel 2007. 
 Results: The most prevalent cervical epithelial cell abnormality was atypical squamous cells of undetermined significance (3.43%) whereas the least common was low grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (0.21%). The most prevalent cervical vaginal infection was Bacterial vaginosis (12.30%) whereas the least prevalent was Trichomoniasis (0.29%). The majority of the women with epithelial cell abnormality were in the age group of 31-40 years whereas the lowest number in the age group less than 20 years. The highest prevalence of cervical vaginal infection was in the reproductive age group (31-50 years) and the lowest in the age above 51 years. Most of the patients had multiple symptoms like vaginal discharge, genital itching, whereas only (20.17%) visited for routine screening. 
 Conclusion: Atypical squamous cells of undetermined significance and Bacterial vaginosis were the most common finding in Pap smear test representing abnormal cytology of cervix and cervicovaginal infection respectively.

The Use of Low-Frequency Ultrasonic Cavitation as an Alternative Method for the Treatment of Cervico-Vaginal Antibiotic-Resistant Mixed Infections

In the practice of a modern gynecologist, the problem of cervico-vaginal infections remains one of the most urgent. A causal relationship between the inflammatory process of the mucous membranes of the vagina and cervix and a possible unfavorable outcome in theform of a violation of the biocenosis of the vaginal environment has been clinically confirmed. Despite modern diagnostic technologies and the adopted tactics of two-stage treatment of cervico-vaginal infections, the cases of relapses is high. As a result, the chronic inflammatory process of the lower tract of the urogenital system negatively affects the reproductive health of the woman and the course of the pregnancy onset on the background of immunopathological disorders. Bacterial vaginosis, nonspecific or aerobic vaginitis, candidal vaginitis are often specific pathological processes that manifests on the background of an existing asymptomatic infectious disease. The article discusses topical issues of diagnosis, treatment and prevention of mixed infections of the female reproductive system,and also highlights the topic of antibiotic resistance as a significant obstacle to the effective treatment of patients with infection of the urogenital tract. Possibilities and perspectives of using alternative methods of treating cervico-vaginal infections in outpatient gynecological practice are highlighted. The key points of application and beneficial effects of ultrasound therapy on the body are considered. The purpose of describing a clinical case is to make a decision on the development of a project of a scientific and clinical study witha high degree of evidence, to create a working model for alternative method of physical medicine effectiveness assessment in gynecological practice on the example of the use of low-frequency ultrasonic cavitation with antiseptic solutions followed by the use of a lyophilized culture of lactobacilli. The use of ultrasonic cavitation in clinical practice as an effective alternative method for treating infections of the urogenital tract in women is clearly demonstrated. The clinical effectiveness of the applied method was evaluated, the desired results were obtained in the form of a long-term relapse-free period and restoration of the normal vaginal biocenosis.

The addition of Lactobacillus spp. negatively affects Mycoplasma bovis viability in bovine cervical mucus

BackgroundMycoplasma bovis is an important pathogen for the cattle industry worldwide causing significant economic losses. Several transmission routes, including those related to reproduction, have been described. Indeed, the pathogen can colonize the female reproductive tract after artificial insemination (AI) with contaminated semen. Lactobacillus spp.-based probiotics have been used for vaginal dysbiosis treatment in women and cows although their role in controlling cervico-vaginal infections due to M. bovis is unknown. The objective of the present work is to assess the viability of M. bovis (PG45, NCTC 10131) in experimentally contaminated cervical mucus after the addition of Lactobacillus spp. at different concentrations as a competing agent and pH acidifier.ResultsThe addition of probiotic at a concentration higher than 108 colony forming units (CFU/mL had a detrimental effect (P < 0.05) on mycoplasma viability in cervical mucus. This coincided with a significant LAB growth and an important decrease in pH from 8.4 to 5.6 (P < 0.05). However, after the addition of less concentrated probiotic, M. bovis survival was not affected and there was no significant LAB growth despite the drop of pH from 8.4 to 6.73 (P < 0.05).ConclusionThe addition of concentrations higher than 108 CFU/mL of Lactobacillus spp. negatively affects M. bovis viability in bovine cervical mucus under in vitro conditions. Although the effect observed on the pathogen viability seems to be related to the pH decrease after LAB proliferation in cervical mucus, further studies are necessary to elucidate if other factors are implicated. Nevertheless, the administration of Lactobacillus spp.-based probiotics might be used in the future to control M. bovis proliferation in the cervico-vaginal tract of cows.

Study of Trichomonas Vaginalis and Bacterial Vaginosis in Pap smear at a Tertiary Health Care Centre of Nepal

Cervical-vaginal infections are common problems in women of reproductive age presented with clinical features like white vaginal discharge, foul smelling odor and pruritis. Trichomonas vaginalis, Candidia and Gardnerella vaginalis are responsible for infectious vaginitis in creating anaerobic environment favoring Bacterial vaginosis caused by organisms like Gardnerella vaginalis, Chlamydia Trachomatis. Papanicolaou (Pap) smear examination is the simple, quick, painless routine screening test used for identification and detection of precancerous changes of uterine cervix as well as the cervico-vaginal infections resulting from bacterial, fungal and candida infections. The prime objective of the study was to identify the age wise distribution of cervical-vaginal infections and determine the frequency of Trichomonas vaginalis (TV) and Bacterial vaginosis (BV). A descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out in the Department of Pathology, Nepal Medical College and Teaching Hospital, Kathmandu. A total of 163 cases of TV and BV diagnosed on Pap smear were taken for the study. However, 564 Pap smears were received in the Department of Pathology for cytological evaluation during the study period. Once the smears were stained, the presence of clue cells, cannon balls and Trichomonas were observed. Out of 564 Pap smears received during the study period, 163 cases were of BV, TV and combined BV and TV. These 163 cases were included in our study. The age ranged from 20 to 65 years with majority (19.1%) of the women belonging to 35-39 years and the mean age was 38.18 ± 10.18 years. There were 97 cases (17.2%) of BV, 50 cases (8.9%) of TV and 16 cases (2.8%) of TV and BV co-infection. Bacterial vaginosis was the most predominant type of cervicovaginal infection followed by TV infection and TV and BV co-infections. Trichomonas vaginalis may create an environment favoring the development of BV. Pap screening could be the beneficial tool in early disease diagnosis and helps in preventing further complications by starting appropriate treatment.

Virulence gene transcription, phylogroups, and antibiotic resistance of cervico-vaginal pathogenic E. coli in Mexico.

The pathogenicity of Escherichia coli strains that cause cervico-vaginal infections (CVI) is due to the presence of several virulence genes. The objective of this study was to define the variability regarding the genotype of antibiotic resistance, the transcription profiles of virulence genes after in vitro infection of the vaginal cell line A431 and the phylogroup composition of a group of cervico-vaginal E. coli strains (CVEC). A total of 200 E. coli strains isolated from Mexican women with CVI from two medical units of the Mexican Institute of Social Security were analysed. E. coli strains and antibiotic resistance genes were identified using conventional polymerase chain reaction (PCR), and phylogroups were identified using multiplex PCR. Virulence gene transcription was measured through reverse-transcriptase real-time PCR after infection of the vaginal cell line A431. The most common antibiotic resistance genes among the CVEC strains were aac(3)II, TEM, dfrA1, sul1, and qnrA. The predominant phylogroup was B2. The genes most frequently transcribed in these strains were fimH, papC, irp2, iroN, kpsMTII, cnf1, and ompT, mainly in CVEC strains isolated from chronic and occasional vaginal infections. The strains showed a large diversity of transcription of the virulence genes phenotype and antibiotic resistance genotype, especially in the strains of phylogroups, B2, A, and D. The strains formed 2 large clusters, which contained several subclusters. The genetic diversity of CVEC strains was high. These strains have a large number of transcription patterns of virulence genes, and one-third of them carry three to seven antibiotic resistance genes.

How the Cervical Microbiota Contributes to Cervical Cancer Risk in Sub-Saharan Africa

Despite ongoing efforts, sub-Saharan Africa faces a higher cervical cancer burden than anywhere else in the world. Besides HPV infection, definitive factors of cervical cancer are still unclear. Particular states of the cervicovaginal microbiota and viral infections are associated with increased cervical cancer risk. Notably, HIV infection, which is prevalent in sub-Saharan Africa, greatly increases risk of cervicovaginal dysbiosis and cervical cancer. To better understand and address cervical cancer in sub-Saharan Africa, a better knowledge of the regional cervicovaginal microbiome is required This review establishes current knowledge of HPV, HIV, cervicovaginal infections, and the cervicovaginal microbiota in sub-Saharan Africa. Because population statistics are not available for the region, estimates are derived from smaller cohort studies. Microbiota associated with cervical inflammation have been found to be especially prevalent in sub-Saharan Africa, and to associate with increased cervical cancer risk. In addition to high prevalence and diversity of HIV and HPV, intracellular bacterial infections such as Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, and Mycoplasma hominis are much more common than in regions with a low burden of cervical cancer. This suggests the prevalence of cervical cancer in sub-Saharan Africa may be partially attributed to increased cervical inflammation resulting from higher likelihood of cervical infection and/or microbial dysbiosis.

Sexual transmission of murine papillomavirus (MmuPV1) in Mus musculus.

Human papillomaviruses (HPVs) are the most common sexually transmitted infectious agents. Because of the species specificity of HPVs, study of their natural transmission in laboratory animals is not possible. The papillomavirus, MmuPV1, which infects laboratory mice (Mus musculus), can cause infections in the female cervicovaginal epithelium of immunocompetent mice that progress to cancer. Here, we provide evidence that MmuPV1 is sexually transmitted in unmanipulated, immunocompetent male and female mice. Female 'donor' mice experimentally infected with MmuPV1 in their lower reproductive tract were housed with unmanipulated male mice. The male mice were then transferred to cages holding 'recipient' female mice. One third of the female recipient mice acquired cervicovaginal infections. Prolonged infections were verified by histopathology and in situ hybridization analyses of both male and recipient female mice at the study endpoint. These findings indicate that MmuPV1 is a new model animal papillomavirus with which to study sexually transmission of papillomaviruses.

Azithromycin-liposomes as a novel approach for localized therapy of cervicovaginal bacterial infections.

BackgroundEfficient localized cervicovaginal antibacterial therapy, enabling the delivery of antibiotic to the site of action at lower doses while escaping systemic drug effects and reducing the risk of developing microbial resistance, is attracting considerable attention. Liposomes have been shown to allow sustained drug release into vaginal mucosa and improve delivery of antibiotics to bacterial cells and biofilms. Azithromycin (AZI), a potent broad-spectrum macrolide antibiotic, has not yet been investigated for localized therapy of cervicovaginal infections, although it is administered orally for the treatment of sexually transmitted diseases. Encapsulation of AZI in liposomes could improve its solubility, antibacterial activity, and allow the prolonged drug release in the cervicovaginal tissue, while avoiding systemic side effects.PurposeThe objective of this study was to develop AZI-liposomes and explore their potentials for treating cervicovaginal infections.MethodsAZI-liposomes that differed in bilayer elasticity/rigidity and surface charge were prepared and evaluated under simulated cervicovaginal conditions to yield optimized liposomes, which were assessed for antibacterial activity against several planktonic and biofilm-forming Escherichia coli strains and intracellular Chlamydia trachomatis, ex vivo AZI vaginal deposition/penetration, and in vitro cytotoxicity toward cervical cells.ResultsNegatively charged liposomes with rigid bilayers (CL-3), propylene glycol liposomes (PGL-2) and deformable propylene glycol liposomes (DPGL-2) were efficient against planktonic E. coli ATCC 700928 and K-12. CL-3 was superior for preventing the formation of E. coli ATCC 700928 and K-12 biofilms, with IC50 values (concentrations that inhibit biofilm viability by 50%) up to 8-fold lower than those of the control (free AZI). DPGL-2 was the most promising for eradication of already formed E. coli biofilms and for treating C. trachomatis infections. All AZI-liposomes were biocompatible with cervical cells and improved localization of the drug inside vaginal tissue compared with the control.ConclusionThe performed studies confirm the potentials of AZI-liposomes for localized cervicovaginal therapy.

O-serogroups of multi-drug resistant cervicovaginal Escherichia coli harboring a battery of virulence genes

Multi-drug resistant cervicovaginal Escherichia coli (CVEC) infections are a serious health problem. The aim of this study is to determine the patterns of virulence genes, antibiotic resistance and O-serogroups of CVEC isolated in Mexico. Two hundred strains of CVEC were isolated from women attending two Clinics at the Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social. E. coli O-serogroups and virulence markers were identified by PCR. Antibiotic susceptibility was determined using the Kirby-Bauer disc-diffusion method. Serogroups O25 (50%), O75 (9%) and O15 (7.5%) were the most frequent among the CVEC strains isolated. The frequencies for antibiotic resistance were ampicillin 97%, (n = 194); carbenicillin 93.5%, (n = 187); cefalotin 77%, (n = 154); and nitrofurantoin 71%, (n = 142). The frequency of multiresistant isolates (3–12 drugs) was 197 (98.5%). The most frequent virulence genes found were feoB (91.5%), fimH (89.5%), kpsMT11 (75%), iutA (66%), and iroN (59%). One hundred and four distinct patterns of virulence markers with antibiotic-resistance genes associated with O-serogroups were identified amongst CVEC isolates. In conclusion: most CVEC strains isolated were multiresistant to antibiotics, belonged to three O-serogroups, and possessed a battery of virulence factors. This knowledge may lead to improved guidelines and standards for treating cervicovaginal infections.

Порівняльне дослідження ефективності топічної терапії комбінованими препаратами змішаних вагінітів, асоційованих з цервіцитами

The objective: to increase the effectiveness of local therapy for recurrent nonspecific vaginitis associated with cervicitis in women of reproductive age on the basis of a comparative evaluation of combined drugs Terzhinan and Neo Penotran Forte. Materials and methods. A prospective, open comparative study included 56 women aged 27.5±2.8 years with recurrent nonspecific vaginitis and cervicitis who were randomized to the main group and comparison group. Patients of the main group (n=28) received the drug Terzhinan® (1 vaginal tablet in the evening, before bed, for 10 days). The comparison group included 28 patients who received Neo-Pentran Forte (1 vaginal suppository in the evening, before bedtime, for 10 days), one vaginal suppository containing 750 mg of metronidazole and 200 mg of miconazole nitrate. The complex clinical-paraclinical examination included the determination of the state of the vaginal microbiota using several methods in parallel: a bacterioscopy of vaginal smears stained by Gram, a bacteriological rapid method using AFGENITAL SYSTEM (Liofilchem®, Italy), real-time PCR (Florocenosis) with detection antigens of chlamydia, herpes simplex virus, human papillomavirus, trichomonads. Results. The main reason for the treatment of patients were abundant pathological discharge from the genital tract (73.2%), pruritus (37.5%) and burning (23.2%) in the vulva, pain during sexual intercourse (8.9%), while 33.9% of women expressed combined complaints. Attention was drawn to the significant frequency of dyshormonal pathology among women with recurrent cervico-vaginal infections. In the examined women, uterine leiomyoma was diagnosed (28.6%), genital endometriosis (19.6%), fibrocystic breast disease (37.5%), combined benign dyshormonal diseases of the genital organs (14.3%). About 21.4% of patients treatment of thyroid gland dysfunction (hypothyroidism). According to the comprehensive examination, in all patients of clinical groups, decompensated vaginal dysbiosis was diagnosed, which was manifested by a sharp decrease in the absence of Lactobacillus spp strains in 39.3% of patients and an increase in the number of isolated opportunistic and pathogenic microorganisms to 1011 CFU/ml with an increase in the number of microorganisms in microbial associations (from 2–3 to 5–6 conditionally pathogenic and pathogenic pathogens) in all the cases analyzed. When using the genital express system in vaginal contents, women of the main group identified Escherichia coli (17.9%), Pseudomonas spp. (10.7%), Gardnerella vaginalis (39.3%), Staphylococcus aureus (17 9%), Enterococcus faecalis (25.0%), Streptococcus Group B (10.7%), Candida spp. (46.4%), Mycoplasma spp./Ureaplasma ur. in the title &gt; 105 (14.0%). In the comparison group, the spectrum of detected pathogenic and conditionally pathogenic microorganisms did not differ significantly from the data of the main group. 92.6% of patients in the main group had a pronounced positive clinical effect, and a positive microbiological effect was achieved in 96.4% of cases that persisted during the next two months of follow-up. Without additional prescription of antifungal agents, a positive effect was achieved in 84.6% of patients in the main group with mixed bacterial-candidiasis vaginitis at 54.5% in the comparison group. The independent recovery of the lactobacilli pool to a titer of 107–109 CFU/ml in 17.9% of patients with a lack of detection of lactobacilli before treatment. A similar effect was not observed in the comparison group. Сonclusion. In a comparative study of the results of the use of Terzhinan and Neo-Penotran Forte in monotherapy in patients with inflammatory diseases of the lower genitalia (nonspecific recurrent vaginitis and cervicitis), the high clinical and microbiological efficacy of Terzhinan has been demonstrated. Key words: mixed vaginitis, cervicitis, Terzhinan, Neo-Penotran Forte.

Factores de riesgos de ruptura prematura de membranas. Hospital Provincial General Docente Riobamba. noviembre 2017-febrero 2018

Se realizó un estudio observacional, de tipo descriptivo y corte transversal con enfoque mixto; cuyo objetivo de determinar los factores de riesgo de ruptura prematura de membranas en las pacientes ingresadas con ese diagnóstico en el Hospital Provincial General Docente Riobamba durante el período noviembre 2017-febrero 2018. Se trabajó con la totalidad de la población, la que estuvo integrada por 17 embarazadas en el contexto de investigación. Se aplicó una guía de entrevista estructurada la misma que fue sometida a valoración por especialistas integrado por siete docentes vinculadas a las tutorías de prácticas preprofesionales en el área del Proceso de Atención de Enfermería en Salud Sexual y Reproductiva de la Universidad Nacional de Chimborazo; el 85,71 % de las consultadas consideraron el instrumento como muy adecuado. El 52,94 % de las mujeres estudiadas fue mayor de 26 años, tenía estado civil casadas y nivel de instrucción de secundaria. El factor clínico más relevante fue infecciones de vías urinarias y cérvico-vaginales durante el embarazo; sin embargo, entre los obstétricos fueron los controles obstétricos escasos y el oligoamnios. Los datos arrojaron la ausencia de aquellos relativos a ser víctima violencia familiar, consumo de sustancias tóxicas, auto medicación, relaciones sexuales durante los últimos 15 días del embarazo, tacto vaginal y/o amniocentesis en las horas previas a la presentación de la entidad en cuestión, embarazo múltiple, antecedentes personales de RPM, incompetencia del cérvix y polihidramnios.