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Clue cells are epithelial cells of the vagina that get their distinctive stippled appearance by being covered with bacteria. The etymology behind the term "clue" cell derives from the original research article from Gardner and Dukes describing the characteristic cells.
Dec 27, 2023 · Clue cells are specialized vaginal epithelial cells that appear stippled or granulated due to being covered with numerous bacteria. Meanwhile, these cells are a critical diagnostic feature in gynecology, particularly for diagnosing bacterial vaginosis (BV), a common vaginal infection.
Jun 10, 2023 · This sample will be tested for "clue cells." Clue cells are vaginal cells covered in bacteria. These are a sign of BV. Test your vaginal pH. The acidity of your vagina can be tested with a pH strip. You place the test strip in your vagina. A vaginal pH of 4.5 or higher is a sign of bacterial vaginosis.
Bacterial vaginosis ( BV) is an infection of the vagina caused by excessive growth of bacteria. [6] [9] Common symptoms include increased vaginal discharge that often smells like fish. [2] . The discharge is usually white or gray in color. [2] . Burning with urination may occur. [2] . Itching is uncommon.
May 6, 2024 · With bacterial vaginosis, the swab may demonstrate a higher than normal vaginal pH (>4.5), the presence of clue cells on a wet mount and a positive whiff test result. To determine the vaginal pH, pH paper can be utilized and compared to color controls.
Clue cells are identified as vaginal epithelial cells with such a heavy coating of bacteria that the peripheral borders are obscured. If three of four criteria are met, then a clinical diagnosis of BV can be made.
A clue cell is a type of cell found in the vagina, an epithelial cell, that when examined under a microscope is found to have a cluster of bacteria attached to it. 1,2 . Clue cells are distinctive in appearance, as they are covered in bacteria and what’s known as a bacterial biofilm.
presence of clue cells on microscopy of a wet mount of a sample of vaginal discharge. Clinical and laboratory assessments for bacterial vaginosis can be affected by factors such as recent sexual activity, menstrual cycle, douching, and use of antimicrobial agents.
Clue cells (bacteria adhering to epithelial cells and sometimes obscuring their cell margins) are identified by microscopic examination of a saline wet mount. Presence of white blood cells on a saline wet mount suggests a concomitant infection (possibly trichomonal, gonorrheal, or chlamydial cervicitis ) and the need for additional testing.
These cells are found on your vaginal wall. If they have fuzzy borders, this indicates a bacterial infection. This test is also called a vaginal smear or wet prep.
