Trichomonas vaginalis infection in women with type 2 diabetes mellitus and vaginal discharge in Benghazi, Libya

Background: There is a wide variation in the prevalence of Trichomonas vaginalis in Libyan women. There are no data on prevalence in Libya women with diabetes, a known risk factor for increased genital infection. Objective: We wished to ascertain the prevalence of Trichomonas vaginalis infection in diabetic women with vaginal discharge in Benghazi, Libya. Patients and Methods: A cross-sectional study was performed at one specialized polyclinic between November 2011 and December 2013. One hundred and ten pregnant and non-pregnant diabetic women aged 17-52 years who complain of vaginal discharge were interviewed and high vaginal swabs were taken and tested with wet mount and culture to detect Trichomonas vaginalis, candida and bacteria. Random blood glucose levels and VDRL tests were also done for all patients. Results: 27 out of 110 vaginal swabs (24.5%) were positive for Trichomonas vaginalis. The age of the patient, color and smell of the vaginal discharge significantly concurred with the Trichomonas vaginalis infection status. Highest rate of infection (50%) was observed in diabetic women over 40 years of age. Non-pregnant diabetic women had a slightly higher prevalence (27.7%) than pregnant diabetic women (22.2%). Eighteen of all vaginal discharge (16.4%) were positive for Candida albicans. Bacterial vaginosis was mostly due to Staphylococcus spp (100%). Additionally, 4 patients (3.6%) had a positive VDRL test. Conclusion: Nearly quarter of women with type 2 diabetes mellitus presenting with vaginal discharge in Benghazi had Trichomonas vaginalis infection. This is markedly higher than previously reported rates in the general female population of the city.

Key-words:

Trichomonas vaginalis infection - Wet mount - Culture - Diabetes - Benghazi - Libya.

Publication History

Received: 15 February 2016

Accepted: 21 June 2016

Article published online:
07 July 2022