This is a Gram-stained photomicrograph of a vaginal discharge specimen. As part of a differential diagnostic study,
after its analysis, a diagnosis of genital-vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) was determined to be this patient's malady
, which had been caused by an overgrowth of Candida albicans organisms. Note the Gram-positive yeast cells,
and the budding cell designated by the arrowhead.

The symptoms of VVC are similar to those of many other genital infections, so it can be difficult to diagnose a yeast infection
by physical examination only. Usually the diagnosis is made by taking a sample of the vaginal secretions and looking at the sample
under a microscope to see if an abnormal number of Candida organisms are present. A fungal culture may not always be useful
because Candida species are normal inhabitants of the body.