Counteraction during movement of spermatozoa by Trichomonas vaginalis observed by visual image analysis: a possible cause of female infertility

Abstract

Objective: To use new medical imaging technology to predict the motility pattern of Trichomonas vaginalis within the vagina.

Design: Use of IPAN Tracker IP97, a noniterative, competitive linking algorithm.

Setting: University laboratory.

Patient(s): None.

Intervention(s): None.

Main outcome measure(s): Visualization of movement pattern of protozoon within the vagina.

Result(s): The motility pattern of T vaginalis within the vagina is a vertical zigzag configuration that results in a circular whirling. During movement of spermatozoa, its counteraction by T vaginalis could be visualized.

Conclusion(s): T vaginalis has flagella and is mobile within the vagina; its whirling movement can disrupt normal sperm movement and potentially result in difficulty in fertilization.