Trichomonas Vaginalis

Question 1

What is the definition of trichomonas vaginalis?

Answer 1

A type of parasite spread through sexual intercourse.

Question 2

What is the pathophysiology of trichomonas vaginalis?

Answer 2

Lives in the urethra of men and women and the vagina of women and is spread through sexual activity

Question 3

What are some symptoms of trichomonas vaginalis?

Answer 3

Asymptomatic (50%)
Vaginal discharge (frothy and yellow-green, may have fishy smell)
Itching
Dysuria
Dyspareunia
Balanitis

Question 4

What is typically seen on examination of cervix in trichomonas vaginalis?

Answer 4

‘Strawberry cervix’

Question 5

What are some investigations for trichomonas vaginalis?

Answer 5

Standard charcoal swab with microscopy
- Swab taken from posterior fornix of vagina in women
- Urethral swab or first-catch urine in men

Question 6

What is the management of trichomonas vaginalis?

Answer 6

Metronidazole (400-500mg twice daily for 5-7 days or a single dose of 2g orally)