Trichomoniasis is a sexually transmitted infection caused by the protozoan parasite Trichomonas vaginalis. It primarily affects the urogenital tract, leading to symptoms such as itching, burning, and discharge.
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Trichomoniasis is treated with metronidazole or tinidazole, both of which are nitroimidazole antibiotics.
The infection is more common in women than men and can increase the risk of acquiring other STIs, including HIV.
Diagnosis typically involves a physical examination and laboratory tests such as wet mount microscopy or nucleic acid amplification tests (NAATs).
Patients should abstain from sexual activity until treatment is completed and all sexual partners should be treated simultaneously to prevent reinfection.
Resistance to metronidazole has been reported but remains relatively rare.
Review Questions
What is the primary causative agent of trichomoniasis?
Which medications are most commonly used to treat trichomoniasis?
Why is it important for sexual partners to be treated simultaneously in cases of trichomoniasis?