Abstract:
This is descriptive study carried out in Khartoum
Teaching Hospital during the period from May 2005 to
December 2005. The study assessed the causes of vaginal
discharge among women, using cytological methods
(papanicolaou techniques). Fifty samples were collected
from women, their ages ranging from 20 - 45 years.
The cytological smears revealed the following
findings. Normal (physiological discharge) was found in 39
(78%) of the study subjects. Hence, abnormal cytological
findings were detected among 11 (22%) of the study
population these, Include 8 (16%) were monilia, 2 (4%)
Trichomonas vaginalis and 1 (2%) dyskaryosis.
White discharge was observed among 40 (80%).
Hence, 35 (87.5%) of white discharges were found normal.
Six (60%) of yellow discharges were found in association
with causes. Twenty-five (86.2%) of non offensive
discharges were found normal. However, 7 (33.3%) of
offensive discharges were found in association with
different causes.
Monilia and trichomonas vaginalis smears showed
inflammatory changes. However, both smears
accompanied with polymorphnuclear- leucocytes
infiltration.
On the basis of this study, cytological assessment
of vaginal discharges is essential for diagnosis of female
genital tract inflammation, pre-malignant and malignant
conditions. We recommended the use of cytology to define
where it may hide early pre malignant changes.