[Tig2575]

I'm having trouble nailing down exactly what STI's are associated with an alkaline shift (~pH of 4-5) in the vagina.

Bacterial vaginosis (caused by Gardnerella vaginalis overgrowth)
Trichomoniasis (caused by Trichomonas vaginalis infection)
Yeast infection (caused by Candida albicans colonization)

Of those three, I'm 99% sure that BV is associated with alkalinity and not entirely sure about the latter two. Review books don't mention it and the internet has conflicting / skeptical information.

Thanks all

 

[fin-84]

I don't know how "Academic" this link is, but it would suggest that BV and trichomonas will cas alkaline shift. Candida can in some cases result alkaline shift, but not normally.

 

[lee-usmle]

Only candida not associated

Only candidal infection is not associated with alkalinity the other two are associated.

BV is specially associated with it because it's a matter of altered flora rather than just an infection.

Have a look here
http://www.usmle-forums.com/usmle-step-2-ck-bits-pieces/2272-differentaiting-vaginal-infections.html

 

[Tig2575]

Thank you both!