A study on the potential role of Trichomonas vaginalis in transmission of Herpes simplex virus type II.

Some strains of Trichomonas vaginalis have been reported to contain virus-like particles (VLP). Whether they were natural inhabitants or acquired from the host, the emerging question will be about the potential role of this protozoan in viral transmission. The present model have been established for studying the ability of T. vaginalis to acquire Herpes simplex virus type II (HSV). Green monkey kidney cells (Vero cells) were infected with HCV and T. vaginalis was inoculated 3 days later. The progress of virus transmission was monitored by transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Fragments of virus containing Vero cells were engulfed by the trichomonads and internalised in vacuoles followed by resolution of the vacuole boundary and viral particles aggregates were retained. Viable HSV was recovered from the trichomonads for 5 days. A conducting study was done through cytopathological examination of 170 cervicovaginal smears revealed 25.8% having trichomoniasis, 2.9% HSV infection and 1.17% with combined infection, while HSV infections represent 4.5% in those having trichomoniasis. These results suggest the potential role of T. vaginalis in viral transmission to reduce this risk, further studies are recommended.