For symptomatic patients, the recommended diagnostic tests for confirming Trichomonas vaginalis infection primarily include Nucleic Acid Amplification Tests (NAATs) NICE NG221. NAATs are considered the most sensitive and specific method for detecting T. vaginalis Meites et al. 2015. While wet mount microscopy can be performed, its sensitivity is significantly lower than NAATs, especially when parasite loads are low Meites et al. 2015. Culture is also an available diagnostic option, but it is less frequently used for routine diagnosis due to its longer turnaround time Meites et al. 2015. The use of highly accurate and efficient diagnostic methods, such as NAATs, is consistent with UK guidelines aimed at reducing sexually transmitted infections NICE NG221. These advanced tests help ensure accurate diagnosis and appropriate management for symptomatic individuals Meites et al. 2015.
Key References
- NG221 - Reducing sexually transmitted infections
- NG60 - HIV testing: increasing uptake among people who may have undiagnosed HIV
- (Meites et al., 2015): A Review of Evidence-Based Care of Symptomatic Trichomoniasis and Asymptomatic Trichomonas vaginalis Infections.
- (Nolan et al., 2020): Adolescent Trichomonas vaginalis in a High-burdened Region of the Southern United States.