- Clue cell
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Clue cells are epithelial cells of the vagina that get their distinctive stippled appearance by being covered with bacteria.
They are a medical sign of bacterial vaginosis, particularly that caused by Gardnerella vaginalis,[1] a group of Gram-variable bacteria. This bacterial infection gives a foul, fishy smelling yellow/grey frothy vaginal discharge, also the vaginal pH is increased above 5.5. Normal vaginal pH varies around 4.5.
References
- ^ Scott TG, Smyth CJ, Keane CT (February 1987). "In vitro adhesiveness and biotype of Gardnerella vaginalis strains in relation to the occurrence of clue cells in vaginal discharges". Genitourinary medicine 63 (1): 47–53. PMC 1194007. PMID 3493202. http://www.pubmedcentral.nih.gov/articlerender.fcgi?tool=pmcentrez&artid=1194007.
External links
- Overview at WebMD
- -865402813 at GPnotebook
- Photo at University of Washington
- Photo at the U.S. Food and Drug Administration
- Photo at hrsa.gov
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