Trichomonas vaginalis is an anaerobic, flagellated protozoan parasite and the causative agent of a sexually transmitted disease called trichomoniasis. It is the most common pathogenic protozoan that infects humans in industrialized countries. Infection rates in men and women are similar but women are usually symptomatic, while infections in men are usually asymptomatic. Transmission usually occurs via direct, skin-to-skin contact with an infected individual, most often through vaginal intercourse. It is estimated that 160 million cases of infection are acquired annually worldwide. The estimates for North America alone are between 5 and 8 million new infections each year, with an estimated rate of asymptomatic cases as high as 50%. Usually treatment consists of either metronidazole or tinidazole. More recent studies on Trichomonas vaginalis have shed light on the parasite's evolution, genomic complexity, and pathogenesis processes. New population studies and genomic sequences illustrate the genetic variability of the parasite and the parasite's possible resistance to treatment. Understanding of host-pathogen interaction and prevention strategies remains a driving force behind public health.

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