Trichomonas vaginalis - Symptoms, Picture, Treatment and Life cycle of Trichomonas vaginalis

Trichomonas vaginalis is a common sexual disease. Trichomonas vaginalis is a flagellated protozoan. In women the organism is found in the vagina,
urethra and paraurethral glands. While the urinary tract is the sole site of infection in less than 5% of cases, urethral infection is present in 90% of episodes. In men infection is usually of the urethra, although trichomonas have been isolated from the sub preputial sac and lesions of the penis.

Symptoms of Trichomonas vaginalis (TV)

In women, a heavy greenish-yellow discharge, pain on intercourse, genital irritation and, sometimes, abdominal pain.

. Vaginal discharge in up to 70% - varying in consistency from thin and scanty to profuse and thick;
the classical discharge of frothy yellow occurs in 10-30% of women.
· Vulvitis and vaginitis are associated with trichomoniasis.
· Approximately 2% of patients will have strawberry cervix appearance to the naked eye. Higher rates are seen on colposcopic examination.
· 5-15% of women will have no abnormalities on examination.

Men are almost always free of symptoms. Rarely, there can be pain on passing urine or a whitish discharge from the penis.

. Urethral discharge (50-60% men)- usually small or moderate amounts only.
· No signs, even in the presence of symptoms suggesting urethritis.
· Rarely balanoposthitis.

Causes of Trichomonas vaginalis

Trichomonas vaginalis (TV) is caused by a tiny parasite found in the vagina and urethra (the tube where urine comes out).

Diagnosis of Trichomonas vaginalis

Vaginal swab or urethral swab in men.

Treatment and mangement of Trichomonas vaginalis

Oral antibiotics for both partners, usually metronidazole. Treatment is simple and involves a single dose or course of antibiotics. Once successfully treated, TV doesn't come back unless a new infection is acquired. To avoid re-infection, any sexual partners must also be treated.

Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs)

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