Pap Smear · Pathology

The presence of 'Döderlein bacilli' in a Pap smear is generally considered:

  1. A sign of a sexually transmitted infection
  2. A normal finding; Lactobacillus forms the vaginal flora
  3. A known precursor to squamous cell carcinoma
  4. A reliable early marker of vaginal fungal overgrowth
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Correct answer: A normal finding; Lactobacillus forms the vaginal flora

Döderlein bacilli (Lactobacillus) are normal inhabitants of the vagina that maintain an acidic pH by converting glycogen into lactic acid. Their presence is a normal finding, though excessive growth can lead to cytolysis of intermediate cells.

Difficulty: Medium Question 19 of 20

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