Trichomonas Vaginalsis Flashcards
(22 cards)
What are the full clinical symptoms of trichomoniasis?
Frothy yellow-green vaginal discharge, foul-smelling odor (especially after intercourse), vulvar irritation, pruritus, dyspareunia (pain during intercourse), and a strawberry cervix (punctate hemorrhages on the cervix)
What is the causative organism of trichomoniasis and how is it classified?
Trichomonas vaginalis; it is a motile, flagellated protozoan parasite
What is the mode of transmission of Trichomonas vaginalis infection?
It is sexually transmitted through vaginal intercourse
What is the characteristic vaginal discharge seen in trichomoniasis?
Frothy yellow-green discharge that is often foul-smelling
What are the key physical exam findings in trichomoniasis?
Strawberry cervix (punctate cervical hemorrhages), vulvar irritation, and vaginal erythema
What is the typical vaginal pH in patients with trichomoniasis?
Greater than 4.5 (elevated vaginal pH)
What is the first-line diagnostic test for trichomoniasis and what does it show?
Wet mount microscopy showing motile, flagellated protozoa (Trichomonas vaginalis)
What is the most sensitive and specific test for diagnosing trichomoniasis?
Nucleic acid amplification test (NAAT) of vaginal fluid
What is the next best diagnostic step if the wet mount microscopy is negative but clinical suspicion for trichomoniasis remains high?
Order a NAAT (nucleic acid amplification test) to confirm the diagnosis
What is the first-line treatment for trichomoniasis?
Single oral dose of metronidazole (2 grams) is the first-line treatment
What is the appropriate management of sexual partners in a patient diagnosed with trichomoniasis?
All current sexual partners must be treated simultaneously with the patient to prevent reinfection and further transmission
What are the counseling points regarding alcohol use during metronidazole treatment for trichomoniasis?
Advise strict alcohol avoidance during and for 24–48 hours after metronidazole use due to risk of disulfiram-like reaction (nausea, vomiting, flushing)
What is the recommendation for sexual activity during and after treatment for trichomoniasis?
Refrain from sexual activity until treatment is completed and both the patient and sexual partners are symptom-free to prevent reinfection
Is trichomoniasis treated in asymptomatic individuals?
Yes, even asymptomatic individuals require treatment due to risk of transmission and complications
What is the treatment for trichomoniasis in pregnancy?
Oral metronidazole is safe and recommended during pregnancy for symptomatic patients
What are the complications of untreated trichomoniasis?
Increased susceptibility to acquiring HIV, adverse pregnancy outcomes such as preterm labor and low birth weight, and increased risk of postoperative infections
How does trichomoniasis increase susceptibility to other infections?
The inflammation and mucosal disruption caused by Trichomonas vaginalis increases susceptibility to HIV and other STIs
What is the appearance of Trichomonas vaginalis under microscopy?
Motile, flagellated protozoa seen on wet mount microscopy
How should trichomoniasis be managed if a patient tests positive but is asymptomatic?
Treatment is still required with oral metronidazole and sexual partners must also be treated
How is trichomoniasis differentiated from bacterial vaginosis in terms of partner management?
Trichomoniasis requires treatment of all sexual partners; bacterial vaginosis does not require partner treatment
What test should be used if microscopy is unavailable or inconclusive in suspected trichomoniasis?
Use a nucleic acid amplification test (NAAT) for definitive diagnosis
What is the significance of a ‘strawberry cervix’ in trichomoniasis?
It is a classic but not universally present finding caused by cervical capillary hemorrhages due to inflammation from the infection
