Trichomonas species can rarely infect the peritoneal cavity.
It is important to identify the species of Trichomonas involved:
(1) Trichomonas vaginalis: may involve spread into the female genital tract with salpingitis
(2) Trichomonas foetus or other species associated with animals: close animal contact
Some cases have been related to an underlying immunodeficiency. The patient reported by Zalonis et al had both immunodeficiency and cirrhosis.
The pathogen is often unsuspected until identified on microscopy.
The diagnosis may be suspected by identifying the protozoa in a clinical specimen and confirmed by PCR. Trying to culture for Trichomonas may also be considered.
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