Differential Diagnosis for White Discharge from Vagina
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Vaginal Yeast Infection (Candidiasis): This is the most common cause of white discharge from the vagina, characterized by a thick, white, cottage cheese-like discharge, often accompanied by itching and redness of the vulva and vagina.
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 and often has a fishy odor.
- Trichomoniasis: This sexually transmitted infection can cause a white, yellowish, or greenish discharge with an unpleasant smell, along with itching and irritation of the genital area.
- Atrophic Vaginitis: This condition, common in postmenopausal women, can lead to a thin, white or yellowish discharge due to the thinning and drying of the vaginal walls.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Cervical Cancer: Although rare, cervical cancer can cause abnormal vaginal discharge, which may appear white. Regular screening is crucial for early detection.
- Gonorrhea: This sexually transmitted infection can cause a white or greenish discharge in women, along with other symptoms like pain during urination and abdominal pain.
- Chlamydia: Similar to gonorrhea, chlamydia can cause a white discharge, though it often has no symptoms at all, making screening important.
Rare Diagnoses
- Vaginal Foreign Body: The presence of a foreign object in the vagina can lead to a white discharge, often accompanied by a foul odor and other symptoms like vaginal bleeding.
- Desquamative Inflammatory Vaginitis (DIV): A rare condition characterized by a thick, white discharge and significant inflammation of the vagina, often requiring biopsy for diagnosis.
- Lichen Sclerosus: A chronic skin condition that can affect the genital area, leading to white, patchy skin changes and sometimes a white discharge, though this is less common.