Trichomoniasis

Question 1

What kind of parasite is Trichomoniasis?

Answer 1

• motile flagellate

- no cysts

Question 2

Where does the trichomoniasis parasite reside?

Answer 2

in the lower female genital tract or male urethra

Question 3

How does the trichomoniasis parasite replicate?

Answer 3

via binary fission with no cyst form

Question 4

How is the trichomoniasis parasite transmitted?

Answer 4

via sexual intercourse

Question 5

Describe the clinical manifestations of trichomoniasis in women

Answer 5

copious amounts of yellow-green vaginal discharge, soreness/irritation, dysuria, pyspareunia, odor, itching

Tip = pathogen is motile and about the size of a leukocyte

Question 6

Describe the clinical manifestations of trichomoniasis in men

Answer 6

generally asymptomatic, but occasional urethritis

Question 7

How do you diagnose trichomoniasis? (5)

Answer 7

• Wet mount of vaginal secretions, examine w/microscope: looking for motile trophs
• Culture is most sensitive, but takes 3-7 days
• No serology
• Some ELISA RNA probes

Question 8

How do you treat trichomoniasis?

Answer 8

• Rx both patient and partner
• Tinidazole or metronidazole orally - generally single dose
• resistance to metronidazole can occur
• Pregnant women are at greater risk fetal complications. Can Rx metronidazole for them.

Question 9

How would you treat a pregnant woman with trichomoniasis?

Answer 9

Because the fetus is at greater risk for complications, Rx metronidazole for preggers people.

Question 10

How do you prevent trichomoniasis?

Answer 10

Abstinence from infected partners