Objective: The parasite Trichomonas vaginalis (T. vaginalis) causes one of the most common non-viral sexually transmitted infections in humans. T. vaginalis is notorious for its inconspicuous appearance in vaginal smears. It can be missed under the microscope.
Method: In the present study, we investigate the immunoreactivity of T. vaginalis to smooth muscle actin (SMA) in the vaginal smear.
Result: T. vaginalis trophozoite and pseduocyst are immunoreactive for SMA in all of the study group cases (n = 21) and in none of the control group cases (n = 21). Thus, SMA immunostain is a sensitive method for the demonstration of T. vaginalis. Moreover, the protozoan attains a conspicuous and unique appearance. By SMA immunohistochemical stain, the apperance of T. vaginalis floated freely or located in the cytoplasm of the epithelial cells is easily identified.
Conclusion: We recommend performing SMA immunostain in every vaginal smear with clinical or pathologic suspicion of trichomoniasis.
Keywords: Trichomonas vaginalis; diagnosis; smooth muscle actin.
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