Candidíase vulvo-vaginal: aspectos da microbiota, da imunidade local e da levedura

Abstract

The balance of LFGT (Female Lower Genital Tract) is maintained by interactions between the vaginal microbiota, hormonal status and immune response. Several factors can trigger vaginitis such as contraceptive use, and tight -fitting and synthetic clothing, antibiotics, weakened immune system, among others. The vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) is an infection of the vulva and vagina, caused by opportunistic yeasts (Candida spp.) that inhabit the vaginal mucosa, becoming pathogenic by interference from endogenous and / or exogenous factors that favor its development.The VVC is characterized by the presence of pruritus, dispauremia, burning and curd-like vaginal discharge. Moreover, vulva and vagina are swollen and hyperemiated . When occur four episodes or more over a period of 12 months from infection caused by Candida spp. it is called recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis (RVVC). Lower Female Genital Tract (LFGT) has different immune responses against pathogenic micro -organisms in various locations such as, pre-specific,nonspecific or innate immune response,specific or acquired immune response.The composition of the vaginal microbiota and immune response represent an important defense mechanism against microorganisms.