Differential Diagnosis for Yellow-White Vaginal Discharge with Irritation and Red, Irritated Labia

• Single Most Likely Diagnosis
  • Vaginal Yeast Infection (Candidiasis): This condition is characterized by a thick, white, cottage cheese-like vaginal discharge, often accompanied by itching, redness, and irritation of the vulva and vagina. The symptoms described match closely with those of a yeast infection, making it the most likely diagnosis.
• Other Likely Diagnoses
  • Bacterial Vaginosis (BV): Although BV typically presents with a thin, grayish-white discharge and a fishy odor, some cases can have a yellowish tint to the discharge. Itching and irritation can also be present, though they are less common than in yeast infections.
  • Trichomoniasis: This sexually transmitted infection can cause a yellow-green or frothy vaginal discharge, along with itching, burning, and redness of the vagina and vulva. The presence of irritation and a colored discharge makes trichomoniasis a plausible diagnosis.
  • Vaginal Trichomoniasis and BV Co-infection: Co-infections can sometimes present with a combination of symptoms, including a yellow-white discharge and significant irritation.
• Do Not Miss Diagnoses
  • Gonorrhea and Chlamydia: These sexually transmitted infections can cause symptoms similar to those described, including abnormal discharge and irritation. Although they might not always present with a yellow-white discharge, missing these diagnoses can lead to serious complications, such as pelvic inflammatory disease (PID).
  • Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV): While primarily known for causing genital ulcers, HSV can also lead to inflammation and irritation of the vulva and vagina, potentially accompanied by an abnormal discharge.
• Rare Diagnoses
  • Desquamative Inflammatory Vaginitis (DIV): A rare condition characterized by a purulent vaginal discharge and significant inflammation of the vaginal walls. It can cause irritation and redness but is less common than other conditions listed here.
  • Vaginal Foreign Body: The presence of a foreign object in the vagina can cause an abnormal discharge, irritation, and inflammation. This is more common in young girls but can occur in anyone, especially if an object is forgotten or inserted for sexual pleasure.