Trichomonas tenax is a Flagellate that when detected is a major contributor to necrotizing ulcerative gingivitis and necrotizing ulcerative peritonitis.

Disease / Pathogenesis

The organism is one of the major contributors to necrotizing ulcerative gingivitis and necrotizing ulcerative peritonitis. It is found in 4-53% of mouths with the highest concentration occurring in persons with poor oral hygiene and advanced periodontal disease.

Trichomonas tenax is distributed between the teeth, tongue, gingiva, and saliva of persons with poor oral hygiene.

Trichomonas tenax has been associated with other diseases as well. It has been associated with fibrocystic mastopathy, and pulmonary trichomoniasis.These disease are most common in individuals that are immunocompromised.

Location in the Host

Trichomonas tenax is found between the test, gums, saliva, and tongue of persons with poor oral hygiene. Immunocompromised individuals my develop pulmonary disease due to Trichomonas tenax.

Geographic Distribution

Trichomonas tenax is distributed worldwide distribution

Life Cycle

The life cycle of Trichomonas tenax is relatively simple. It is transmitted from person to person. Modes of person to person transmission include droplets/saliva, kissing, and sharing contaminated water/dishes.

Morphology & Diagnosis

Trichomonas tenax diagnosis is usually done any observing the flagellate in mouth scrapings. Trichomonas tenax can also be detected in pyorrheal pockets and tonsillar crypts when suspected.

PCR techniques for the detection of Trichomonas tenax can also be used but are not readily available.

Images

Trichomonas tenax showing undulating membrane, prominent nucleus, flagella.
Illustration by W. Vientos