What are the symptoms of trichomoniasis?
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Symptoms of Trichomoniasis
Trichomoniasis, caused by the protozoan parasite Trichomonas vaginalis, is the most common non-viral sexually transmitted infection worldwide. The symptoms of trichomoniasis can vary significantly between men and women, and even among individuals of the same sex.
Symptoms in Women
Vaginal Discharge and Odor
One of the most common symptoms in women is a profuse, frothy, yellow-green vaginal discharge that often has an unpleasant odor . This discharge is typically malodorous and can be quite copious, leading to significant discomfort.
Vaginal and Vulvar Itching
Women with trichomoniasis frequently experience itching and irritation in the vaginal and vulvar areas. This itching can be severe and persistent, contributing to the overall discomfort associated with the infection.
Vaginal and Vulvar Erythema
The infection often causes redness and inflammation of the vaginal and vulvar tissues, known as erythema. This symptom is a result of the body's inflammatory response to the parasite.
Colpitis Macularis (Strawberry Cervix)
A distinctive sign of trichomoniasis in women is colpitis macularis, also known as "strawberry cervix," which is characterized by punctate hemorrhagic lesions on the cervix . This condition is a result of the parasite's direct damage to the cervical epithelium.
Other Symptoms
Additional symptoms in women can include soreness, burning during urination, and discomfort during sexual intercourse . These symptoms can significantly impact a woman's quality of life and sexual health.
Symptoms in Men
Urethral Discharge
In men, trichomoniasis can cause a urethral discharge that may be clear, cloudy, or purulent (pus-like). This discharge is often accompanied by other symptoms of urethritis.
Urethritis and Prostatitis
Men with trichomoniasis may develop urethritis, characterized by inflammation of the urethra, leading to symptoms such as burning during urination, urinary frequency, and perineal pain . Prostatitis, or inflammation of the prostate gland, can also occur, causing additional discomfort and urinary symptoms.
Asymptomatic Cases
It is important to note that the majority of trichomoniasis cases in men are asymptomatic, meaning that infected men often do not exhibit any noticeable symptoms . Despite the lack of symptoms, asymptomatic men can still transmit the infection to their sexual partners.
Conclusion
Trichomoniasis presents with a range of symptoms that can vary widely between individuals. In women, the infection commonly causes a malodorous vaginal discharge, itching, and inflammation, while in men, it may lead to urethral discharge and urethritis, though many men remain asymptomatic. Recognizing these symptoms is crucial for timely diagnosis and treatment to prevent complications and further transmission.
Sources and full results
Most relevant research papers on this topic
Clinical manifestations of vaginal trichomoniasis.
Trichomonas vaginalis: treatment questions and challenges
Trichomonas vaginalis: Clinical relevance, pathogenicity and diagnosis
Dealing with trichomoniasis.
Clinical Manifestations of Trichomoniasis in Men
A Review of Evidence-Based Care of Symptomatic Trichomoniasis and Asymptomatic Trichomonas vaginalis Infections.
Antitrichomonas IgG, IgM, IgA, and IgG subclass responses in human intravaginal trichomoniasis
Trichomoniasis: clinical manifestations, diagnosis and management
A Review on Diagnostic Methods for Trichomonas Vaginalis
Clinical and Microbiological Aspects ofTrichomonas vaginalis
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