Differential Diagnosis for Redness of the Cervix in a 35-Year-Old Female
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Cervicitis: This is the most common cause of cervical redness, often due to infectious agents such as Chlamydia trachomatis or Neisseria gonorrhoeae. The inflammation can cause the cervix to appear red and may be accompanied by other symptoms like discharge or pain.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Vaginitis: Inflammation of the vagina, which can be caused by infections (bacterial, yeast, or trichomoniasis), can sometimes cause or contribute to cervical redness due to the proximity and shared flora of the vagina and cervix.
- Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Infection: While often asymptomatic, certain strains of HPV can cause visible changes to the cervix, including redness, especially if there are lesions or warts present.
- Allergic Reactions or Irritants: Exposure to certain products (e.g., spermicides, douches) can irritate the cervix, leading to redness.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Cervical Cancer: Although less common, any abnormality of the cervix, including unexplained redness, warrants investigation for cervical cancer, especially in the context of an abnormal Pap smear or HPV test.
- Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID): A serious infection of the female reproductive organs that can cause cervical redness among other symptoms. It requires prompt treatment to prevent long-term complications.
- Gonococcal or Chlamydial Infection with Systemic Symptoms: These infections can lead to more severe conditions like PID or disseminated gonococcal infection if not treated promptly.
Rare Diagnoses
- Cervical Ectropion: A condition where the glandular cells lining the inside of the cervical canal are everted to the outside of the cervix, which can cause the cervix to appear red due to the exposed glandular tissue.
- Cervical Polyps: Benign growths on the cervix that can cause redness or bleeding, especially after intercourse or douching.
- Desquamative Inflammatory Vaginitis: A rare condition characterized by vaginal inflammation and could potentially cause cervical redness due to the close anatomical relationship between the vagina and cervix.