What distinguishing feature is associated with bacterial vaginitis?

The distinguishing feature associated with bacterial vaginitis, also known as bacterial vaginosis, is an alkaline pH and the presence of clue cells. In bacterial vaginosis, the normal vaginal flora is disrupted, leading to an overgrowth of certain bacteria, which causes an increase in vaginal pH (typically above 4.5). Clue cells are vaginal epithelial cells that appear stippled or "clue-like" under microscopy due to their adherence to bacteria, and they are considered a hallmark of this condition.

The alkaline pH and the presence of clue cells are critical diagnostic criteria that help differentiate bacterial vaginosis from other conditions like yeast infections or sexually transmitted infections, which typically have different presenting characteristics. Yeast infections are associated with a normal pH and thick, curdy discharge, while sexually transmitted infections may involve motile flagellated organisms like Trichomonas and are often characterized by other specific symptoms. Understanding these features is vital in making accurate diagnoses and providing appropriate treatment.