Vulvovaginitis in adolescents

Inflammation of the vulva and vagina, called vulvovaginitis, is one of the more common genitourinary complaints encountered in the general practice setting among adolescent females. Classic symptoms of vulvar pruritus, burning and irritation, with or without the presence of vaginal discharge may be non-specific to causative infectious etiologies that include non-specific vulvovaginitis, bacterial vaginosis (BV), Trichomonas vaginalis, and candidiasis. Specific recommended diagnostic and therapeutic interventions are described. While most of the infections may be acquired sexually, treatment of sexual partners may or may not be indicated in all of cases. However, regular and systematic surveillance through universal screening is essential to prevent complications and spread of infection. This article reviews aspects of vulvovaginitis in adolescents that are of direct relevance in medical practice.