Candida albicans and Trichomonas vaginalis: High prevalence and risk factors in women attending a gynaecology clinic in Jos, Nigeria

Abstract

Background: Candida albicans and Trichomonas vaginalis are commonly associated with other Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs) and comprise markers of high-risk sexual behavior. Aim: To determine the prevalence and risk factors associated with Candida albicans and Trichomonas vaginalis infections in Jos, Nigeria. Methods: A total of one hundred and fifty (150) high vaginal swab specimens were collected from women attending the Gynecological Clinic, Plateau State Specialist Hospital, Jos, Nigeria. The specimens were examined microscopically for motile trichomonads, hyphae, pseudohyphae and budding yeast cells. Culture was carried out on SGA (Sabouraud’s Glucose Agar Medium) and germ tube test was also done. Identification of the isolates was done according to microscopic morphology on SGA, and germ tube formation. The data obtained were analyzed using SPSS incorporated. Chi-square values of p ≤ 0.05 were considered significant. Results: Candida albicans was detected in 48(32.0%) of the population studied while Trichomonas vaginalis was detected in 5.3% of the population. Occurrence of Candida albicans with age showed a decrease in occurrence with an increase in age from 19(35.8%) to 2 (28.0%) in age groups 15-25 and 46-55 years respectively, (p >0.05). In relation to marital status, married women had higher infection rates of 38(36.2%) and 6 (5.7%) for both Candida albicans, (p >0.05) and Trichomonas vaginalis, (p >0.05) respectively. There were higher rates of Candida albicans infections in women who used oral contraceptives, antibiotics (p <0.05) and those that were pregnant. Conclusion: The prevalence of Candida albicans in the study population was high while the prevalence of Trichomonas vaginalis was low. These infections can have serious adverse effects on women’s reproductive health; hence intervention initiatives should be taken to reduce their prevalence.

Keywords

• candida albicans
• trichomonas vaginalis
• prevalence
• women