Differential Diagnosis for White Discharge
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Yeast Infection (Candidiasis): This is often the most common cause of white discharge, particularly in women. It is characterized by a thick, white, cottage cheese-like vaginal discharge, often accompanied by itching and redness.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Bacterial Vaginosis (BV): Although BV typically presents with a thin, grayish-white discharge, it can sometimes appear white. It's associated with an imbalance of vaginal bacteria.
- Trichomoniasis: This sexually transmitted infection can cause a white, greenish, or yellowish vaginal discharge, often with a strong odor.
- Cervicitis: Inflammation of the cervix can lead to a white or yellowish discharge, depending on the cause (infectious or non-infectious).
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Gonorrhea: A sexually transmitted infection that can cause a white or yellowish discharge. It's crucial to diagnose and treat promptly to prevent complications like pelvic inflammatory disease (PID).
- Chlamydia: Another sexually transmitted infection that can lead to a white discharge. Like gonorrhea, it requires prompt diagnosis and treatment to prevent long-term complications.
- Cervical Cancer: Although less common, abnormal vaginal discharge can be a symptom of cervical cancer. Regular screening is key to early detection.
Rare Diagnoses
- Foreign Body: The presence of a foreign object in the vagina can cause a white discharge, especially in young girls. This is often accompanied by other symptoms like vaginal bleeding or odor.
- Desquamative Inflammatory Vaginitis (DIV): A rare condition characterized by a thick, white discharge and significant vaginal inflammation. The exact cause is unknown, but it's thought to be related to an autoimmune response or an allergic reaction.