What type of fungal structure is typically seen in candidal vulvovaginitis?

In candidal vulvovaginitis, the predominant type of fungal structure observed is pseudohyphae. Pseudohyphae are elongated yeast cells that resemble true hyphae but are characterized by constrictions at the septa, which distinguish them from the more uniform structure of true hyphae. This morphological feature is key in identifying Candida species under the microscope, especially in a clinical setting where quick identification is crucial for appropriate treatment.

In candidiasis, particularly when there is an acute infection, yeast forms (individual yeast cells) are also present, but the presence of pseudohyphae can suggest a more invasive or chronic form of the infection. This is significant in differentiating it from other fungal infections, as true hyphae are typically associated with other types of fungal pathogens, and conidia are a form of asexual reproduction that is not commonly linked with candidal infections. Dimorphic cells, which can switch between yeast and hyphal forms (typically seen in fungi such as Histoplasma or Coccidioides), are not typically a feature of Candidal infections. Thus, identifying pseudohyphae in a sample is essential for diagnosing candidal vulvovaginitis.