BV (sialidase) activity: Enzyme activity test for use in the detection of vaginal fluid specimens for sialidase activity, an enzyme produced by bacteria associated with bacterial vaginitis, including Bacteroides spp, Prevotella spp, and Mobiluncus spp, and some G vaginalis. In a recent study, Bradshaw et al demonstrated the test to be 88% sensitive and 95% specific. Vaginal yeast culture: Detect yeast in vaginal fluid.

BV (sialidase) activity: Collecting specimens from the cervix should be avoided because (a) it might increase the risk to OB patients, and (b) cervical sialidase activity is usually higher than vaginal sialidase activity. Do not collect specimens from patients who have (a) used a vaginal cream or ointment product, (b) douched, or (c) used spermicides, vaginal lubricants, or feminine sprays within 72 hours of testing. If insufficient sample is collected or collected from a patient undergoing antimicrobial therapy, the test may give a false-negative result.

Bradshaw CS, Morton AN, Garland SM, Horvath LB, Kuzevska I, Fairley CK. Evaluation of a point-of-care test, BVBlue, and clinical laboratory criteria for diagnosis of bacterial vaginosis. J Clin Microbiol. 2005 Mar; 43(3):1304-1308. PubMed 15750100