Clue cells are epithelial cells of the vagina that get their distinctive stippled appearance by being covered with bacteria.
They are a medical sign of bacterial vaginosis, particularly that caused by Gardnerella vaginalis, a group of Gram-variable bacteria. This bacterial infection gives a foul, fishy smelling, thin gray vaginal discharge. Also the vaginal pH is increased above 5.5. Normal vaginal pH varies around 4.5.
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