Trichomonads

Trichomonads (synonyms: trichomonad colpitis; Trichomonas vaginalis; trichomoniasis; ICD-10 A59.9: trichomoniasis, unspecified) are unicellular parasites that cause infections of the urogenital tract and inflammation of the mucous membranes of the genital organs in humans in particular. In women, they are known as trichomonad colpitis.

The species Trichomonas vaginalis, T. hominis and T. tenax can be distinguished, with Trichomonas vaginalis being the most important.

The disease belongs to the sexually transmitted diseases (STD (sexually transmitted diseases) or STI (sexually transmitted infections)).

Occurrence: The pathogen occurs worldwide.

The transmission of the pathogen (infection route) occurs through sexual contact.

The incubation period (time from infection to outbreak of the disease) is usually 5-28 days.

Sex ratio: Women, especially older women, are more frequently affected by a trichomonad infection than men.

Course and prognosis: In about two-thirds of those infected, the infection is asymptomatic (without symptoms), especially in men. If the acute infection is not treated, it turns into a chronic infection. With adequate therapy, the prognosis is very good. It is important that the partner is also treated. If left untreated, the pathogen can survive for months to several years and cause recurrent symptoms.