Microbiome of the vaginal biotope: from norm to pathology

O.I. Letyaieva

South Ural State Medical University, Chelyabinsk

The literature review presents data on the modern view concerning the state of colonization resistance of the female reproductive system, etiology, sexually transmitted infections pathogenesis, and urogenital infections. The review also considers the role of Lactobacillus flora as the main protection factor of the genital tract from pathogens invasion. Potential risks of pathological processes development in the case of functional inferiority of lactobacilli were indicated. The role of microbial associations was discussed from the perspective of modern microbiology. Data on the significance of microbial associations of Chlamydia trachomatis spp. with anaerobic microorganisms in the initiation of inflammatory and neoplastic processes were presented. The issues of co-infections amongst genital mycoplasmas and Trichomonas vaginalis were considered. Modern views about biofilms formed by Gardnerella vaginalis were also reflected. New data on fungi participation of the Candida genus in maintaining the pathological process in the female reproductive system, especially the interaction of fungi with the vaginal epithelium were shown. The review also highlights the issues of immunological protection during infection with obligate and opportunistic microorganisms. According to current research data and current clinical recommendations, the possibility of combined drug (metronidazole and miconazole) rational use for topical treatment of mixed infections in women was shown.

Keywords: genital tract, microbial associations, Chlamydia trachomatis, Trichomonas vaginalis, urogenital infections, Gardnerella vaginalis, Candida, biofilm, miconazole, metronidazole.

For citation: Letyaieva O.I. Microbiome of the vaginal biotope: from norm to pathology. RMJ. 2020;12:72–76.