The test used for the diagnosis of trichomoniasis is:
A. Wet mount of vaginal fluid
B. ELISA test of serum
C. Specific serologic test
D. Ova and parasite fecal smear
Correct Answer: A. Wet mount of vaginal fluid
Explanation
The test used for the diagnosis of trichomoniasis is:
Wet mount of vaginal fluid
Explanation:
- Trichomoniasis is caused by Trichomonas vaginalis, a motile protozoan.
- On a wet mount microscopy of vaginal discharge (saline preparation), the organism can be seen as actively motile, flagellated protozoa.
- This is the most commonly used and rapid bedside diagnostic test.
Answer: ✅ Wet mount of vaginal fluid
Other Options Details
Here’s a clear, exam-oriented explanation of all the options:
A. Wet mount of vaginal fluid
- A simple microscopic test done by placing vaginal discharge on a glass slide with saline.
- Commonly used to diagnose:
- Bacterial vaginosis → clue cells
- Trichomoniasis → motile trichomonads
- Candidiasis → budding yeast or pseudohyphae
- It’s quick, cheap, and often done in OPD settings.
B. ELISA test of serum
- A blood test that detects antigens or antibodies using enzyme-linked reactions.
- Commonly used for infections like:
- HIV
- Hepatitis B & C
- Syphilis (screening)
- Very sensitive and useful for screening large populations.
C. Specific serologic test
- Detects specific antibodies against a particular organism in the blood.
- Examples:
- VDRL / RPR → screening for syphilis
- TPHA / FTA-ABS → confirmatory tests for syphilis
- Helps in confirming diagnosis and staging of disease.
D. Ova and parasite fecal smear
- Microscopic examination of stool samples.
- Used to detect:
- Intestinal parasites like roundworms, hookworms, tapeworms
- Protozoa such as Entamoeba histolytica and Giardia
- Not useful for diagnosing genital or vaginal infections.
Quick exam tip 💡
- Vaginal infections → Wet mount
- Systemic infections / STDs → ELISA or serology
- Intestinal parasites → Stool (ova & parasite) exam
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Thanks!! 🙏 😊
Writer: Vandita Singh, Lucknow (GS India Nursing Group