What symptom is vaginal purulent discharge caused by?

• A. Gonorrhea
• B. Chlamydia
• C. Trichomonas
• D. Herpes

Answer: (A)

Purulent vaginal discharge is most classically produced by gonorrheal cervicitis. Neisseria gonorrhoeae drives a strong neutrophil-dominated inflammatory response, resulting in thick, pus-like discharge from the cervix and vagina. This purulent exudate is a key clue that points toward gonorrhea, and Gram stain showing intracellular Gram-negative diplococci from the cervix or urethra supports the diagnosis. In contrast, chlamydia more often causes milder or mucopurulent discharge and can be asymptomatic; trichomonas typically causes a frothy, yellow-green discharge with odor and irritation; herpes presents with painful vesicles or ulcers rather than a purulent discharge.