With an estimated 276.4 million cases per year, and with an associated two- to three-fold increased risk for HIV acquisition, Trichomonas vaginalis (TV) is one of the most common and arguably most important sexually transmitted infections (STIs).1,2
While TV is a highly curable parasitic infection, 70%–85% of people infected show minimal or no symptoms. This contributes to a significant amount of silent transmission between partners, increasing the prevalence of disease immensely.2
If left undiagnosed and untreated, TV can lead to urethritis and chronic prostatitis in males. Females may experience pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), preterm birth and other adverse pregnancy outcomes. Additionally, there is increased risk for acquisition of HIV infection in both sexes if infected with TV.2
With limited worldwide surveillance and increasing incidence, TV represents a rapidly growing health challenge. Frequent and accurate diagnostic testing is a key strategic pillar for managing infection rates and informing effective treatment.
