It is a sexually transmitted disease, and is caused by the single-celled protozoan parasite Trichomonas vaginalis producing mechanical stress on host cells and then ingesting cell fragments after cell death.[1]
Trichomoniasis is primarily an infection of the urogenital tract; the most common site of infection is the urethra and the vagina in women.
Typically, only women experience symptoms associated with Trichomonas infection.
Symptoms
- Symptoms include inflammation of the cervix (cervicitis), urethra (urethritis), and vagina (vaginitis) which produce an itching or burning sensation.
- Discomfort may increase during intercourse and urination.
- There may also be a yellow-green, itchy, frothy foul-smelling ("fishy" smell) vaginal discharge.
- In rare cases, lower abdominal pain can occur.
- Symptoms usually appear in women within 5 to 28 days of exposure.[2]
- In many cases, men may hold the parasite for some years without any signs (dormant).
- Some sexual health specialists have stated that the condition can probably be carried in the vagina for years, despite standard tests being negative.[3]
- While symptoms are most common in women, some men may temporarily exhibit symptoms such as an irritation inside the penis, mild discharge, or slight burning after urination or ejaculation
Trichomoniasis is diagnosed by visually observing the trichomonads via a microscope.
TreatmentTreatment for both pregnant and non-pregnant patients usually utilizes metronidazole (Flagyl) but with caution especially in early stages of pregnancy[7] 2000 mg by mouth once. Sexual partners, even if asymptomatic, should be concurrently treated.
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