Detection of Mycoplasma genitalium and Trichomonas vaginalis Infections in General Jordanian Patients

Abstract

Problem statement: Both M. genitalium and T. vaginalis were recognized as important cause of sexually transmitted infections in developed countries. This study investigated the prevalence of M. genitalium and T. vaginalis in general Jordanian patients and their role of causing genitourinary tract diseases. Approach: A cross sectional study of 383 Jordanian adult patients aged between 19-78 years were investigated for presence of M. genitalium and T. vaginalis at the urology and obstetric-gynecology clinics at the Jordan University Hospital in Amman. First voided urine specimens were tested using urine microscopy, PCR for M. genitalium and T. vaginalis as well as culture for T. vaginalis. Results: The incidence of M. genitalium was higher and statistically significant (17/188, 9%, p = 0.022) than T. vaginalis (3/188; 1.6%) among patients diagnosed with specific urinary symptoms and signs, while this incidence was less but also significant in asymptomatic patients ( 7/195, 3.6% versus 1/195, 0.5%, p = 0.031), respectively. M. genitalium infection was frequently observed with urinary frequency (76%) and dysuria (59%) among symptomatic patients and more common in men than women (65% versus 35%, p = 0.51) and in married than singles (76% versus 24%, p = 0.59). Dual infection with both organisms was not recognized. Conclusion: Infection caused by M. genitalium and T. vaginalis was associated with higher incidence rate in patients with symptomatic genitourinary disease. Therefore, screening for their occurrence in such patients is important.