The characteristic odor associated with bacterial vaginosis can be initiated by the application of which substance?

• A. Isopropyl alcohol
• B. Potassium hydroxide
• C. Hydrogen peroxide
• D. Water

Answer: (B)

The characteristic odor associated with bacterial vaginosis is often linked to the presence of amines that are released when certain substances interact with vaginal secretions. Potassium hydroxide is significant in this context because it reacts with secretions to release these amines, resulting in a fishy odor, especially noted during the whiff test when a drop of potassium hydroxide is added to a vaginal discharge sample.

This reaction highlights potassium hydroxide's role in the diagnostic process for bacterial vaginosis, as the distinctive fishy smell is a key indicator of the condition. In contrast, the other substances listed do not contribute to the formation of this odor in the same way, making potassium hydroxide the correct association for initiating the characteristic smell seen with bacterial vaginosis.