Clue cells, also known as Gardnerella vaginalis cells, are a type of bacteria that can be detected on a wet prep of vaginal fluid. These cells are often indicative of bacterial vaginosis (BV), a common vaginal infection that affects up to 30% of women. Clue cells are characterized by their large size, irregular shape, and the presence of multiple nuclei. They are typically found scattered throughout the vaginal fluid and are associated with a fishy odor. The diagnosis of BV is typically based on the presence of three of the following four criteria: a positive whiff test, the presence of clue cells, a pH of greater than 4.5, and the absence of white blood cells.
Clue Cells on a Wet Prep
Clue cells are epithelial cells with a distinctive appearance that can indicate a vaginal yeast infection. They are typically large, flat, and have a thin cytoplasm. The nucleus is usually located in the center of the cell and often has a prominent nucleolus. Clue cells are often covered in a layer of bacteria, which can give them a “frothy” appearance.
To identify clue cells on a wet prep, you will need to:
- Collect a sample of vaginal fluid. You can do this by using a cotton swab or by inserting a sterile speculum into the vagina and using a sterile cotton swab to collect a sample from the vaginal walls.
- Place the sample on a glass slide.
- Add a drop of saline or water to the sample.
- Cover the slide with a coverslip.
- Examine the slide under a microscope using a 10x objective.
Clue cells are typically seen as large, flat cells with a thin cytoplasm. The nucleus is usually located in the center of the cell and often has a prominent nucleolus. Clue cells are often covered in a layer of bacteria, which can give them a “frothy” appearance.
The presence of clue cells on a wet prep is a strong indication of a vaginal yeast infection. However, it is important to note that clue cells can also be seen in other conditions, such as bacterial vaginosis and trichomoniasis. Therefore, it is important to confirm the diagnosis of a vaginal yeast infection with other tests, such as a culture or a vaginal pH test.
Here is a table summarizing the characteristics of clue cells:
| Characteristic | Appearance |
|---|---|
| Size | Large |
| Shape | Flat |
| Cytoplasm | Thin |
| Nucleus | Central, with a prominent nucleolus |
| Bacteria | Often present, giving the cells a “frothy” appearance |
Question 1:
What are clue cells on a wet prep?
Answer:
Clue cells on a wet prep are flat, polygonal cells with centrally located nuclei. They are exfoliated from the cervical os and endocervix, and their presence in a wet prep is suggestive of human papillomavirus (HPV) infection.
Question 2:
How do clue cells differ from normal squamous cells?
Answer:
Unlike normal squamous cells, which are round or oval with peripherally located nuclei, clue cells are flat and polygonal with centrally located nuclei. They also lack the characteristic cytoplasmic glycogen granules of normal squamous cells.
Question 3:
What clinical significance do clue cells have?
Answer:
The presence of clue cells on a wet prep is a sign of bacterial vaginosis, a common vaginal infection caused by an overgrowth of certain types of bacteria in the vagina. Clue cells are coated with bacteria, which gives them a characteristic “fishy” odor.
That’s a wrap for our little detective work into clue cells! I hope you’ve enjoyed this microscopic adventure as much as I have. If you’ve got any lingering questions or crave more medical knowledge, don’t hesitate to swing by again. I’m always here, ready to dish out the microscopic scoop. Until next time, keep your slides clean and your knowledge sharp!