What are pathogenic and commensal micro-organisms?

Several of the body's organs including the bowel and the vagina are not sterile. A swab test from the upper vagina (HVS high vaginal swab) is usually taken if you have problems with vaginal discharge or if it is thought that you may have pelvic infection. If a swab sample is sent for culture many bacteria or other micro-organisms are invariably identified. It is a matter of clinical judgement whether any of these are causing a problem for you in which case we would call them pathogens (generating pathology disease). If they are innocent we call them commensals. It should be recognised that a swab from the upper vagina may not reflect the situation in the uterus or Fallopian tubes.

Women's Health

Please click on the required question.

1 What is an infection.

2 What is acute pelvic inflammatory disease?
3 What is chronic pelvic inflammatory disease?
4 How is pelvic inflammatory disease treated?
5 What are pathogenic and commensal micro-organisms?
6 What is meant by venereal disease?
7 What problems can occur in people with gonorrhoea?
8 What problems can occur in people with syphilis?
9 What problems can occur in people with chlamydia?
10 What problems can occur in people with human papilloma virus (HPV)?
11 Could I contract a venereal disease without being aware of it?
12 What is pelvic tuberculosis?
13 What is pelvic actinomycosis?
14 What are HIV and AIDs?
15 How can I avoid getting HIV?
16 Should I have a test for HIV?
17 Support Groups.
18 Could I have some HIV AIDS Support Groups.
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This is the personal website of David A Viniker MD FRCOG, Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist at Whipps Cross University Hospital, London - Specialist Interests - Reproductive Medicine including Infertility, PCOS, PMS, Menopause and HRT.

I do hope that you find the answers to your women's health questions in the patient information and medical advice provided.

Pathogenic and commensal micro-organisms. -checksum="62198" ends