Trichomonas vaginalis

Trichomonas vaginalis is the commonest non-viral sexually transmitted infection worldwide. It is caused by the flagellated protozoan trichomonas vaginalis

Presentation:
  • Asymptomatic in up to 50% of infections 
  • Vaginal discharge 
    • Ranges from thin to thick; classically frothy yellow but this occurs in just 30% of cases 
    • malodorous 
  • Itchiness 
  • Dysuria 
  • Dyspareunia 
  • ‘strawberry cervix’ - occurs in around 2%

It increases the risk of infection with HIV.
It is associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes such as low birth rate. 

Diagnosis
  • Microscopy 
  • Culture in Diamond’s medium 

Treatment 
1st line – metronidazole 
2nd line – tinidazole 


References:
author profile image
Sarah Hudson

Secret collector of interesting anonymised ECGs. Fan of the Bath Photomarathon. Lover of cream teas.

Secret collector of interesting anonymised ECGs. Fan of the Bath Photomarathon. Lover of cream teas. [Sarah Hudson] (Your Picture)