The yeast, Candida albicans, is the causative organism of most common yeast infections. As the yeast infection symptoms vary from person to person and often involve various parts of the body, this condition can rarely be diagnosed by the patient's history and physical examination alone. Only a yeast infection test performed by a physician can provide an accurate and definitive diagnosis. This includes: a history, a pelvic examination, a pH test, a wet prep, and a whiff test. If itching is present and yeast is not detected under the microscope, then a yeast culture on Sabouraud's medium is imperative.
The
physical examination includes using a speculum to
inspect the vulva, vagina and the cervix. The doctor
takes a swab of the discharge and may obtain cultures to
rule out infection by other bacteria or parasites. To
perform the test, a swab of yeast is mixed with a drop
of potassium hydroxide and is placed on a slide. If a
specific branching pattern is seen through the
microscope, it confirms yeast infection. A whiff test
for the presence of amines is performed by placing a
drop of 10% KOH onto the vaginal secretions and checking
for a fishy odor. A blood and urine specimen may also be
collected for further confirmation. In the case of
toddlers with yeast infections, the diagnostic
test involves microscopic testing of skin scraping
from the affected area. Yeast infections are common in
toddlers in the diaper area as the heat and
moisture-trapping disposable diapers are an excellent
environment for the yeast to proliferate. If a typical
diaper rash does not clear up in two days of
conventional treatment, then you should consult your
pediatrician to determine if the toddler may be
suffering from a yeast infection. Yeast infections in
toddler can cause severe discomfort and
itching.
Simpler
do-it-yourself tests have also been developed. It is
possible to distinguish between yeast infection,
trichomoniasis or bacterial vaginosis simply by testing
the pH of the vagina. Some companies have made kits with
a test strip for yeast infection that can be done in the
privacy of your home. Another home test is the saliva
test which can also be done at home. Fill a clear glass
with water, work up some saliva, and spit into the cup.
This should be done first thing in the morning before
eating or drinking or even brushing your teeth. If you
see strings traveling downward from the saliva or
speckles suspended in the water, or the water begins to
turn cloudy and the saliva sinks to the bottom of the
cup, you may have a yeast
infection.
Once yeast
infection is confirmed, treatment should be started
immediately. Alternative or holistic treatment program
is safer, cheaper, and more effective in controlling the
yeast infection than conventional treatment with
antifungal medications.
