AC-04. Update on Epidemiology, and Laboratory Diagnosis of Trichomonas vaginalis with review of other common agents of Vaginitis
Originally Presented: April 9, 2008
Speaker: Gerri Hall
Summary of Session: Trichomonas vaginalis is one of the 3 causes of infectious vaginitis, the other two being Candida, usually C. albicans, and the syndrome referred to as bacterial vaginosis. All 3 have characteristic findings clinically, but since polymicrobial disease is more common than was previously realized and the characteristics may overlap, it is essential to examine any patient for all of these agents when entertaining the diagnosis of vaginitis. Wet mount observations & simple lab tests (finding of clue cells, the “whiff” test and determination of pH) should still be performed in most cases, but today, there are newer lab tests. Emphasis will be placed on the laboratory detection of Trichomonas vaginalis and will include the pitfalls of the traditional wet mount observation, and introduce use of culture, antigen tests and probes or other molecular assays to increase sensitivity of detection of this significant parasitic etiology of infectious vaginitis.
Objectives: Upon completion of this Teleconference, participants should be able to:
- Define the most common etiologies of infectious vaginitis and their epidemiology and clinicalmanifestations
- Describe in detail the laboratory diagnosis of Trichomonas vaginalis to include antigen assays, molecular probes and amplification and culture methods.
- Discuss the process of determining the best tests for the agents of vaginitis in different situations.
Intended Audience: Clinical microbiologists, pathologists, infectious disease practitioners, medical technology students, members of division C in ASM
CME Disclosures: Gerri Hall, Ph.D., has indicated that she has the following financial relationship to disclose:
- Becton Dickinson; Honoraria in May 2007, ASM meeting for talk on vaginitis
- ASM Policy on Faculty Discussion of Unapproved or Unlabeled Uses of Drugs of Devices
In accordance with the ACCME Essential Areas and Policies relating to commercial support, the audience is advised that Dr. Gerri Hall will not be discussing any off-label usage of products.
Termination of CME Credit: This program will not be eligible for CME/CE credit after April 9, 2009
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