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New developments in microbiome-based diagnostic and treatment of vulvovaginal candidiasis and bacterial vaginosis

Paulo Refinetti

 There have been several recent discoveries linking the microbiome with different types of recurrent vaginitis and other complex infections. The general pattern that is emerging, is that a series of chronic vaginal conditions, such as vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) and bacterial vaginosis (BV) are caused by an imbalanced microbiome. There is also mounting evidence, that they can be cured by restoring the “correct” microbiome balance. To better understand the relationship between vaginosis and the microbiome, a clinical study has been set-up. A total of 90 woman, distributed across: control, VVC, BV groups have been sampled. 5 samples were taken from each woman at different locations in the vagina. All samples were analyzed with a novel microbiome profiling technology, provided by REM Analytics, a swiss start-up. This technology demonstrated a much higher precision in profiling the microbiome that other commercially available options. The results help identifying key microbiome patterns that relate with both VVC and BV. Furthermore, they present lay the foundation for the development of probiotic treatment for both diseases. The next study which includes intervention is currently being planned.