Epidemiology, Natural History, Diagnosis, and Treatment of Trichomonas vaginalis in Men

Clin Infect Dis. 2021 Sep 15;73(6):1119-1124. doi: 10.1093/cid/ciab514.

Abstract

Trichomonas vaginalis infections in men are traditionally considered to be benign and consequently have been overlooked. However, men with this common sexually transmitted infection can experience urethritis, prostatitis, reduced fertility, and amplified human immunodeficiency virus risk. In addition, men are often asymptomatic and can unknowingly spread the infection to their female sexual partners. With advances in T. vaginalis diagnostics, more men are being diagnosed, yet the optimal method of treatment in men remains unknown. The purpose of this review is to discuss the epidemiology, natural history, diagnosis, and treatment of T. vaginalis among men.

Keywords: epidemiology; men’s health; sexually transmitted infections; trichomoniasis.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Humans
  • Male
  • Prevalence
  • Sexual Partners
  • Sexually Transmitted Diseases* / diagnosis
  • Sexually Transmitted Diseases* / drug therapy
  • Sexually Transmitted Diseases* / epidemiology
  • Trichomonas Infections* / diagnosis
  • Trichomonas Infections* / drug therapy
  • Trichomonas Infections* / epidemiology
  • Trichomonas vaginalis*
  • Urethritis*