Trichomonal Vaginitis

Trichomonal vaginitis is common, caused by T. vaginalis. Pear-shaped, pointed posterior, 2-3× neutrophil size, four anterior flagella, undulating membrane, protruding axostyle. Transparent, teardrop-shaped. Life cycle simple (trophozoite only); survives 2 days at 3-5°C, 20-60 min at 46°C, ~10 h semi-dry, 45-120 min in soap water.

Common Symptoms

Bacterial infection; foul odor; frequency; hematuria; purulent discharge; dysuria; pruritus

Causes and Pathogenesis

Transmitted sexually and indirectly (public baths, tubs, pools, toilets, clothes, instruments, dressings). Any person can be infected; those with altered vaginal pH or low immunity more susceptible; reinfection common. Reservoirs are carriers and contaminated objects. In China, public-fomite transmission (bath chairs, toilet seats, shared underwear, rental swimwear) is important due to crowded conditions. Medical cross-infection and shared household basins also occur. The organism is a pear-shaped parasite 10-30 µm with four equal anterior flagella, visible microscopically. Adapts 25-42°C, survives 21 days at 3-5°C, 20-60 min at 46°C, hours semi-dry. Besides vagina it invades urethra/paraurethral glands and even ureter/pelvis. Optimum pH 5.5-6; inhibited below 5 or above 7.5.

Treatment

Drug therapy, supportive therapy

Preventive Measures

1. Eradicate reservoirs: routine wet-mount screening in gynecology clinics/inpatients; mass screening in factories/schools/towns; treat spouses. 2. Cut routes: showers instead of shared baths, squat toilets, ban patients from pools, no rental swimwear/towels, strict instrument disinfection, fresh paper per exam. 3. Health education. 4. Strict isolation/treatment of patients/carriers.

Department to Visit

It is recommended to visit the Gynecology department; an appointment can be booked on this platform before the visit.

Warm reminder: The above information is for health science reference only and cannot replace professional medical diagnosis. If you have related symptoms, please seek medical attention at a regular hospital promptly.