[Trichomoniasis. Physiopathology and therapy]

Based on many years' experience with trichomonas vaginalis the author comes to the conclusion that trichomonads are much more common than expected. Therefore the possibility of trichomoniasis shoudl be taken into account not only when discharge is found in females or persistent urethritis in males, but also in other affections. Remote reactions may occur in either sex, e.g. prostatis or adnexitis. Sterility is sometimes due to trichomonas vaginalis. Apart from classical pictures in either sex arthritis and erythema nodosum may develop. The unstained preparation is usually sufficient for demonstrating the organism. The clinical diagnosis in males and females is discussed. The new single dose therapy with tinidazole is of special interest for three reasons: low minimum trichomonacidal concentrations, 72-hour-action, high active excretion in the urine. No effect on the blood picture was observed. It appears that tinidazole (Simplotan) has a secondary effect on the pathological mixed flora. Candida, too, is often eliminated, but in some cases nystatin therapy is still necessary. The relations to diabetes mellitus, antibiotics, pregnancy and hormonal contraception are discussed.