Trichomoniasis

Clinical Presentation:

Trichomoniasis, caused by the protozoan Trichomonas vaginalis, is the most common curable STD in sexually active women.

Approximately 70% of people with trichomoniasis will have no symptoms. In women, a malodorous, yellow-green vaginal discharge with vulvar irritation can occur. In men, trichomoniasis can cause urethral discharge or dysuria.

Diagnostic Testing:

Diagnosis of vaginal trichomoniasis is commonly performed by microscopy of vaginal secretions, although this method has a sensitivity of only approximately 60-70%, and requires evaluation of a wet preparation slide for optimal results. Other FDA-cleared tests for trichomoniasis in women include immunochromatographic capillary flow dipstick tests that can be performed at the point of care. Culture for T. vaginalis is also considered a sensitive and specific method of detection, and is commonly used when microscopy is negative. Among women, nucleic acid amplification testing is the most sensitive and specific test available for diagnosis.