Differential Diagnosis for Green Vaginal Discharge
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Bacterial Vaginosis (BV): This condition is characterized by an imbalance in the normal vaginal flora, leading to an overgrowth of bacteria. It is the most common cause of abnormal vaginal discharge in women of reproductive age, and the discharge is often thin and greenish or yellowish in color, with a fishy odor.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Trichomoniasis: A sexually transmitted infection caused by the parasite Trichomonas vaginalis. It can cause a green, frothy, and foul-smelling vaginal discharge.
- Gonococcal Infection: Caused by the bacterium Neisseria gonorrhoeae, this sexually transmitted infection can lead to a greenish or yellowish vaginal discharge.
- Chlamydial Infection: Another sexually transmitted infection, caused by Chlamydia trachomatis, which can result in a greenish or mucopurulent vaginal discharge.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID): A serious infection of the female reproductive organs that can be caused by various bacteria, including those transmitted sexually. While the discharge may not always be green, PID is a critical diagnosis to consider due to its potential for severe complications, including infertility and chronic pelvic pain.
- Cervical Cancer: Although less common, advanced cervical cancer can cause abnormal vaginal discharge, including a greenish hue, due to infection or necrosis of the tumor.
Rare Diagnoses
- Foreign Body: The presence of a foreign object in the vagina, such as a retained tampon, can lead to a green, foul-smelling discharge due to infection.
- Vaginal Tumors: Benign or malignant tumors of the vagina can cause abnormal vaginal discharge, including a greenish color, though this is exceedingly rare.
- Diverticulum or Fistula: Abnormal connections between the vagina and other organs (like the intestine) can lead to the introduction of fecal material into the vagina, resulting in a greenish, foul-smelling discharge.