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 odor1 4. 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 areas1. 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 erythema1. 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 cervix1 2. 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 intercourse4 8. 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)5. 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 pain2 5. 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 symptoms2 5. 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.
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Most relevant research papers on this topic
Clinical manifestations of vaginal trichomoniasis.
Vaginal trichomoniasis is associated with symptoms of yellow discharge, abnormal vaginal odor, and vulvar itching, but more sensitive tests like culture and immunofluorescent staining are needed for improved detection and control.
Observational Study
Highly CitedTrichomonas vaginalis: treatment questions and challenges
Trichomoniasis treatment challenges include understanding the mechanisms of resistance to 5-nitroimidazole drugs, developing new treatments, and addressing the impact of trichomoniasis on public health.
Trichomonas vaginalis: Clinical relevance, pathogenicity and diagnosis
Trichomonas vaginalis is a global health concern with increasing incidence and complexity in diagnosis, and new diagnostic options like nucleic acid amplification tests show promise for single-visit testing and treatment.
Highly CitedDealing with trichomoniasis.
Trichomoniasis is a sexually transmitted infection that can cause vaginal discharge, pain, and discomfort in both men and women, and can coexist with chlamydia, gonorrhoea, and HIV.
Clinical Manifestations of Trichomoniasis in Men
Trichomonas vaginalis is a urogenital pathogen in men, with potential for nongonococcal urethritis and prostatitis, and current recommendations for evaluation and treatment should be reassessed.
Observational StudyHighly CitedA Review of Evidence-Based Care of Symptomatic Trichomoniasis and Asymptomatic Trichomonas vaginalis Infections.
Trichomonas vaginalis infection can be effectively treated with single-dose antibiotics, but women with HIV should receive 7 days of therapy.
Literature ReviewHighly CitedAntitrichomonas IgG, IgM, IgA, and IgG subclass responses in human intravaginal trichomoniasis
Specific IgG subclass response in vaginal secretions may play a significant role in establishing symptomatic infection in female patients with Trichomonas vaginalis infection.
Observational StudyTrichomoniasis: clinical manifestations, diagnosis and management
Trichomoniasis is a sexually transmitted infection with potential for transmission and acquisition of HIV, and screening for the disease is important.
Highly CitedA Review on Diagnostic Methods for Trichomonas Vaginalis
Several diagnostic methods can accurately differentiate trichomoniasis infection from other sexually transmitted infections, but current methods mostly use women's urine and vaginal samples, and methods for men's infections are limited.
Systematic ReviewClinical and Microbiological Aspects ofTrichomonas vaginalis
Trichomonas vaginalis pathogenesis is complex and involves adhesion, hemolysis, and soluble factors, requiring further research for improved disease control and prevention.
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