Managing Resistant Trichomonas Vaginitis

Vaginal trichomoniasis is a sexually transmitted disease of worldwide importance that is commonly treated with metronidazole. Although surprisingly uncommon, resistance to metronidazole has nevertheless been widely reported. Patients with suspected resistant trichomoniasis should have the diagnosis confirmed either by visualization of motile trichomonads on saline microscopy or by culture. In addition, reinfection from a partner must be ruled out through a careful history. Data regarding treatment of metronidazole-resistant trichomoniasis are mainly limited to case reports or series. Most cases can be treated successfully with increasing doses of oral metronidazole. Other promising options include oral tinidazole and topical paromomycin cream.