Trichomonas

Question 1

Trichomonas - epi

Answer 1

1. Trichomonas vaginalis - flagellated protozoan. Found in vaginal, urethral and para-urethral glands
2. Most genital infections in males are asymptomatic, though they may cause a non-specific urethritis
3. 50% of women develop symptoms, typically between 5 and 28d after transmission. Most common symptoms = malodorous vaginal discharge (frothy, greenish, offensive-smelling) + vulval itching and soreness + dysuria
4. Dx = direct observation of organism by wet smear (normal saline) or acridine orange stained slide from posterior vaginal fornix. Alternatively - NAAT (also high sensitivity and specificity)
5. Tx = single dose of 2g metronidazole or tinidazole. All sexual partners must be treated concurrently or re-infection will occur