Disorders of the Genitourinary System Related

Review Disorders of the Genitourinary System related questions and content

During a vaginal examination of a 38-year-old woman, the nurse notices that the vulva and vagina are erythematous and edematous with thick, white, curdlike discharge adhering to the vaginal walls. The woman reports intense pruritus and thick white discharge from her vagina. The nurse knows that these history and physical examination findings are most consistent with which condition?

  • A. Candidiasis
  • B. Trichomoniasis
  • C. Atrophic vaginitis
  • D. Bacterial vaginosis
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Step 1: The key clues in the question are thick, white, curdlike discharge, intense pruritus, erythematous, and edematous vulva and vagina.
Step 2: These symptoms are classic for candidiasis, a fungal infection caused by Candida species.
Step 3: Candidiasis commonly presents with thick, white discharge, itching, and inflamed vaginal tissues.
Step 4: Trichomoniasis (choice B) typically presents with frothy, greenish-yellow discharge and vaginal itching.
Step 5: Atrophic vaginitis (choice C) is more common in postmenopausal women and presents with thin, watery discharge and vaginal dryness.
Step 6: Bacterial vaginosis (choice D) presents with thin, grayish-white discharge and a fishy odor.
Step 7: Therefore, based on the symptoms described in the question, the correct answer is A: Candidiasis.