A female presented with thick white discharge and pruritus. aetiological agent is: September 2009, March 2013
**Core Concept**
The question is testing the ability to diagnose a common vaginal infection based on its clinical presentation. The thick white discharge and pruritus are key symptoms that help differentiate between various vaginal infections. This requires knowledge of the typical presentations of common vaginal pathogens.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The correct answer is likely to be a fungus, specifically Candida albicans, which is a common cause of vaginal infections. The thick white discharge and pruritus are classic symptoms of a Candida infection. Candida albicans thrives in warm, moist environments and can overgrow in the presence of hormonal changes, diabetes, or antibiotic use. The vaginal epithelial cells have receptors for adhesins on Candida, facilitating the adherence and colonization of Candida.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
* **Option A:** Bacterial vaginosis (BV) typically presents with a thin, grayish-white discharge and a fishy odor, not thick white discharge and pruritus.
* **Option B:** Trichomonas vaginalis, a protozoan parasite, causes a greenish-yellow frothy discharge and is less likely to present with pruritus.
* **Option C:** Chlamydia trachomatis, a bacterial infection, typically presents with a mucopurulent discharge and is less likely to cause pruritus.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Candida infections can be exacerbated by factors such as diabetes, immunosuppression, and the use of broad-spectrum antibiotics.
**Correct Answer:** C. Candida albicans.