Similar species are reported from other mammals. The parasite is transmitted by coitus. In the females, the infection may cause low grade inflammation, sterility and poor conception rate. In males, the clinical picture varies from no apparent signs to inflammation of the prepuce. Like all trichomonads, the organism multiplies by simple binary fission and does not posses a cyst stage.
Diagnosis is based on microscopic evaluation of the trophozoite stage.
Samples of vaginal mucus or exudate or saline washings from the vagina and preputal cavity are best for microscopic examination. Washings should be left to settle for an hour or two or centrifuged for examination of the sediment. In cases of abortion, allantoic and amniotic fluids as well as fetal tissues and membranes should be examined. Treatment is difficult and usually not attempted. Trichomonas vaginalis- Agent of human trichomoniasis.