Final answer:
Yellowish white vaginal discharge is a symptom of vaginitis, which can be caused by infections or bacterial imbalances like bacterial vaginosis. Diagnosis involves examining the discharge and characteristics such as pH, odor, and presence of clue cells, with treatment tailored to the cause.
Step-by-step explanation:
The symptom of yellowish white discharge from the vagina is indicative of a gynecologic condition called vaginitis, which is an inflammation of the vagina. This condition can often be caused by an infection with microorganisms like the yeast Candida albicans or by an imbalance of bacteria known as bacterial vaginosis, most commonly associated with Gardnerella vaginalis. Diagnosis is typically based on medical history, symptoms, and diagnostic tests such as pH testing, presence of clue cells, or a microscopic examination of the discharge. Vaginitis and bacterial vaginosis may also cause itching, pain, and a fishy odor, especially noticeable upon the addition of 10% KOH. Treatment usually involves an oral or topical anti-fungal or antibiotic, depending on the underlying cause.