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Urogenital trichomoniasis:  Clinical Features
  • "Trichomonas vaginalis infection in women is frequently symptomatic. 

  • Vaginitis with a purulent discharge is the prominent symptom, and can be accompanied by vulvar and cervical lesions, abdominal pain, dysuria and dyspareunia. 

  • The incubation period is 5 to 28 days.

  • In men, the infection is frequently asymptomatic; occasionally, urethritis, epididymitis, and prostatitis can occur."

    • Source:  CDC

 

Urogenital trichomoniasis:  Laboratory Diagnosis

  • "Microscopic examination of wet mounts may establish the diagnosis by detecting actively motile organisms. 

    • This is the most practical and rapid method of diagnosis (allowing immediate treatment), but it is relatively insensitive. 

    • Direct immunofluorescent antibody staining is more sensitive than wet mounts, but technically more complex.   Culture of the parasite is the most sensitive method, but results are not available for 3 to 7 days. 

    • In women, examination should be performed on vaginal and urethral secretions. 

    • In men, anterior urethral or prostatic secretions should be examined."

  • Source: CDC

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