Which finding is associated with Candida infection of the vagina?

• A. Clue cells on saline
• B. Hyphae and budding yeast on KOH
• C. Intracellular Gram-negative diplococci
• D. Motile, flagellated protozoa on saline preparation

Answer: (B)

Candida vaginitis is best identified by fungal forms seen on a potassium hydroxide preparation. The key finding is budding yeast with hyphae (often described as pseudohyphae), which are characteristic of Candida species. The KOH helps dissolve debris and cells, making these fungal elements easier to spot.

Other infections produce different microscopic clues: clue cells point to bacterial vaginosis; intracellular Gram-negative diplococci suggest Neisseria gonorrhoeae infection; motile, flagellated protozoa indicate Trichomonas vaginalis.