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

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.