Impact of dual infections with candida spp and herpes simplex virus 2 on copper, zinc, and magnesium and other biomarkers in women withvaginitis

This study was conducted in Kirkuk, Iraq, from November 2022 to November 2023, to to evaluate the prevalence of Candida spp and Herpes simplex Virus (HSV) infections among women with vaginitis in relation to some biomarkers. The study involved 327 married women aged 21-60 with vaginal infections. Deep vaginal swabs were collected, with 100 samples confirmed positive for Candida spp. various analyses were performed on the blood samples, including ESR, CBC determination, and serum separation. Serum samples were stored at -20°C for further analysis of various enzymes and HSV-2. The study's findings reveal a significant proportion of vaginal samples yielded positive cultures for Candida, with the highest percentage observed among women aged 51-60 years. Candida albicans was the most predominant species identified. Furthermore, seroprevalence studies indicated a higher prevalence of HSV-2 among younger age groups and individuals with higher levels of education. Coinfection rates between Candida and HSV-2 were also documented. Additionally, analysis of biomarkers such as copper, zinc, magnesium, SOD, ceruloplasmin, and eNOS revealed notable reductions in mean levels among groups with positive infections compared to negative infection and control groups. Lastly, variations in erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) levels across different infection categories suggest potential differences in inflammatory status, with elevated levels observed in individuals with positive infection status compared to those with negative infection status or the control group.