True about Trichomonas vaginalis:a) Flagellated parasiteb) Fungal infectionc) Curdy white discharged) Prurituse) Sexually transmitted
**Core Concept**
Trichomonas vaginalis is a protozoan parasite that causes trichomoniasis, a sexually transmitted infection (STI) affecting the genitourinary system. It is one of the most common curable STIs worldwide.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
Trichomonas vaginalis is a flagellated protozoan, meaning it has whip-like structures (flagella) on its surface that allow it to move. This characteristic is essential for its survival and transmission. The parasite infects the vaginal epithelium, leading to symptoms such as vaginal discharge, pruritus, and dysuria. The infection is transmitted through sexual contact with an infected partner.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
* **Option A:** Flagellated parasite - **Correct** (Trichomonas vaginalis is indeed a flagellated protozoan).
* **Option B:** Fungal infection - **Incorrect** (Trichomonas vaginalis is a protozoan, not a fungus).
* **Option C:** Curdy white discharge - **Incorrect** (Trichomonas vaginalis infection typically causes a frothy, greenish-yellow discharge, not a curdy white one).
* **Option D:** Pruritus - **Incorrect** (While pruritus can be a symptom of trichomoniasis, it is not a defining characteristic of the infection).
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Trichomonas vaginalis infection can be asymptomatic in up to 70% of infected women, highlighting the importance of screening for this STI, especially in high-risk populations.
**Correct Answer:** A. Flagellated parasite.