Trichomoniasis

Can it be picked up on a smear test?

My smear result mentioned trichomonas. I did not think that test was looking for infections.

tin_roof 3 months ago

NoteMember experience, not medical advice. Symptoms overlap between infections and only a test can tell them apart.

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second_tuesday 3 months ago

It is not looking for it, but the organism is sometimes visible on the slide and gets reported when a cytologist sees it. Incidental findings like this do happen.

It is not a reliable test for it though, and it can also be reported in error, so confirmation with a proper test is usual before treating.

west_pier 3 months ago

Many screening programmes have moved to HPV testing first, with cells only examined if HPV is found. That means this incidental finding turns up less often than it used to.

first_frost 3 months ago

Do follow it up rather than filing the letter. An incidental report is still a reason to get tested properly, and to get a full screen while you are there.

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