Aetiologies and contributing factors of vulvovaginal candidiasis in Abidjan (Cote d'Ivoire).

AIM OF THE STUDY

In order to update the data and contribute to optimizing the management of vulvovaginal candidiasis, we conducted this study to determine their etiology (and hence the sensitivity of the isolated fungal organisms) and the factors contributing to their occurrence in Abidjan (Cote d'Ivoire).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

This cross-sectional survey involving 400 women with clinically vulvovaginitis was conducted from May to July 2011. It was carried out at the health centre for venereal diseases located at the National Institute of Public Hygiene in Abidjan. After a swab collecting, direct examination and culture on Sabouraud Chloramphenicol and Sabouraud Chloramphenicol Actidione media were implemented to research yeasts. After identifying yeast species through blastesis tests and auxanogram, its in vitro susceptibility to amphotericin B, 5-fluorocytosine, clotrimazole, miconazole, econazole and ketoconazole was assessed.

RESULTS

As a whole, 172 patients suffered from vulvovaginal candidiasis i.e. an overall prevalence of 43%. Candida albicans was most frequently isolated (82.5%) followed by C. glabrata (10.5%). C. albicans and C. tropicalis were resistant to the 5-fluorocytosine (respectively 24.65 and 33.33%). Other molecules have shown excellent activity on all yeasts isolated. Type of housing, type of underwear and patients personal history were statistically associated with the presence of vulvovaginal candidiasis (respectively P=0.003; 0.010; 0.022).

CONCLUSION

Vulvovaginal candidiasis is relatively frequent in Abidjan and antifungal compounds are in general still effective for treatment. Being knowledgeable of risk factors for this vulvovaginitis will ensure better prevention of their occurrence.