GROWTH AND SURVIVAL OF TRICHOMONAS-VAGINALIS

This study confirmed that Feinberg and Whittington medium was suitable for the cultivation and detailed study of the growth cycle of two cli nical strains of Trichomonas vaginalis under anaerobic conditions. Bot h strains showed a similar growth pattern characterised by early but s low growth, extended duration of the logarithmic phase and limited sur vival never exceeding 144 h. Duration of survival and growth rate were inversely proportional to the inoculum density. Growth rate was pH de pendent; pH values in the range 6.9-6.5 delayed the initiation of grow th of T. vaginalis for at least 48 h. On the other hand, pH values of 6.4-4.5 were indifferent or slightly favourable for growth during the logarithmic and survival in the early decline phase. Normal saline and Ringer's solution exerted an early and progressively lethal effect on trichomonads and led to the disappearance of protozoa suspended in th em in 150 min. In general, these in-vitro results shed light on some a spects of the biology of T. vaginalis and contribute to a better under standing of the epidemiology and clinical manifestations of the infect ion.