A genetic term that means inflammation and infection of the vagina is:
A. Endometriosis
B. Candidiasis
C. Vaginitis
D. Pruritus
Correct Answer: C. Vaginitis
Explanation
The general (medical) term that means inflammation and infection of the vagina is:
Vaginitis
Explanation:
- “Vagina” refers to the vaginal canal.
- The suffix “-itis” means inflammation.
- Therefore, vaginitis literally means inflammation of the vagina, which is commonly caused by infection, irritation, or hormonal changes.
Common causes of vaginitis include:
- Bacterial infections (e.g., bacterial vaginosis)
- Fungal infections (e.g., Candida causing candidiasis)
- Parasitic infections (e.g., Trichomonas vaginalis)
- Non-infectious causes (allergy, poor hygiene, low estrogen)
Common symptoms:
- Abnormal vaginal discharge
- Itching (pruritus)
- Burning sensation
- Foul odor
- Pain or discomfort
✔ Correct answer: Vaginitis
Other Options Details
Here are clear explanations of each option:
A. Endometriosis
A chronic gynecological condition in which tissue similar to the endometrium (lining of the uterus) grows outside the uterus, commonly on ovaries, fallopian tubes, or pelvic peritoneum.
- Symptoms: Dysmenorrhea (painful periods), chronic pelvic pain, dyspareunia (pain during intercourse), infertility.
- Cause: Hormonal and immune factors.
- Key point: Causes pelvic pain and infertility, not infection.
B. Candidiasis
A fungal infection of the vagina caused mainly by Candida albicans.
- Symptoms: Thick, white “curd-like” vaginal discharge, intense itching, redness, burning sensation.
- Risk factors: Pregnancy, diabetes, antibiotics, immunosuppression.
- Key point: A common cause of vaginal itching and discharge.
C. Vaginitis
Inflammation of the vagina due to infection, allergy, or irritation.
- Common causes:
- Bacterial vaginosis
- Candidiasis
- Trichomoniasis
- Chemical irritants (soaps, douches)
- Symptoms: Vaginal discharge, itching, burning, foul odor, discomfort.
- Key point: It is a broad term that includes several vaginal infections.
D. Pruritus
Refers to itching of the skin or mucous membranes.
- In gynecology: Pruritus vulvae means itching of the vulva.
- Causes: Candidiasis, diabetes, poor hygiene, allergies, skin disorders.
- Key point: It is a symptom, not a disease.
Summary:
- Endometriosis → Painful, non-infectious condition
- Candidiasis → Fungal infection
- Vaginitis → Vaginal inflammation (general term)
- Pruritus → Itching symptom
I hope that you liked this article.
Thanks!! 🙏 😊
Writer: Vandita Singh, Lucknow (GS India Nursing Group