Bacterial vaginosis
See also in: AnogenitalAlerts and Notices
Synopsis

BV is the most common etiology of vaginal discharge in people of childbearing age; however, a majority of patients are asymptomatic. In the United States, the estimated prevalence is anywhere from 11% to 33% of women, with some difference in prevalence among ethnicities (a higher rate in Black patients has been observed).
The diagnosis and management of BV is important for several reasons, including:
- BV increases the risk of acquisition of STIs including HIV, gonorrhea, Chlamydia, Trichomonas, human papillomavirus (HPV), and herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2).
- BV has been associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes (premature membrane rupture, early labor, preterm birth, intra-amniotic infection, and postpartum endometritis).
Codes
ICD10CM:N76.0 – Acute vaginitis
SNOMEDCT:
419760006 – Bacterial vaginosis
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Differential Diagnosis & Pitfalls
The major pitfall associated with diagnosis of BV would be failing to assess for other STIs.Differential diagnosis includes:
- Trichomoniasis
- Atrophic vaginitis
- Candidiasis
- Gonococcal infection
- Chlamydial infections
- Genital herpes
- Mechanical or chemical irritation
- Vaginal / cervical changes secondary to radiation exposure
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References
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Last Reviewed:10/13/2021
Last Updated:10/17/2021
Last Updated:10/17/2021