Differential Diagnosis for Increased Discharge

Single Most Likely Diagnosis

• Bacterial Vaginosis: This is a common condition in women of reproductive age, characterized by an imbalance of the normal vaginal flora, leading to increased discharge. The discharge is often thin, white, or gray, and has a fishy odor.

Other Likely Diagnoses

• Yeast Infection (Candidiasis): A fungal infection that can cause a thick, white, cottage cheese-like discharge. It's common in women, especially after antibiotic use or during pregnancy.
• Trichomoniasis: A sexually transmitted infection caused by a parasite, leading to a greenish-yellow, frothy discharge with an unpleasant odor.
• Gonorrhea: A sexually transmitted infection that can cause increased discharge, which may be cloudy or bloody, and is often accompanied by other symptoms like pain during urination.
• Chlamydia: Another sexually transmitted infection that can lead to increased discharge, though it may be less noticeable than in gonorrhea. It can also cause pain during urination and intercourse.

Do Not Miss Diagnoses

• Cervical Cancer: Although rare, cervical cancer can cause increased vaginal discharge, which may be bloody or have an unusual appearance. Regular screening is crucial for early detection.
• Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID): A serious condition that can result from untreated sexually transmitted infections, leading to inflammation of the female reproductive organs. Symptoms include increased discharge, pelvic pain, and fever.
• Endometrial Cancer: Cancer of the lining of the uterus, which can cause abnormal vaginal bleeding or discharge, especially in postmenopausal women.

Rare Diagnoses

• Foreign Body: The presence of a foreign object in the vagina, which can cause a foul-smelling discharge. This is more common in young girls who may insert objects out of curiosity.
• Desquamative Inflammatory Vaginitis (DIV): A rare condition characterized by a purulent discharge and inflammation of the vaginal walls, often accompanied by pain and itching.
• Vaginal Cancer: A rare type of cancer that can cause abnormal vaginal bleeding or discharge. It's more common in older women and those with a history of human papillomavirus (HPV) infection.