Use the following choices to answer questions 2–5:
a. Candida
b. Chlamydia
c. Gardnerella
d. Neisseria
e. Trichomonas


Microscopic examination of vaginal smear shows flagellated eukaryotes.

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the key characteristics of the organisms listed in the choices.
2. Understand that flagellated eukaryotes are typically protozoans.
3. Recall that Trichomonas is a flagellated protozoan known to cause infections in the vaginal area.
4. Compare the characteristics of Trichomonas with the description given in the problem.
5. Conclude that the organism observed in the microscopic examination is likely Trichomonas.

Key Concepts

Eukaryotic Microorganisms

Eukaryotic microorganisms are organisms whose cells contain a nucleus and other organelles enclosed within membranes. This group includes a variety of organisms, such as fungi, protozoa, and algae. In the context of the question, identifying flagellated eukaryotes suggests the presence of protozoa, which are often involved in infections and can be observed under a microscope.

Flagella

Flagella are long, whip-like structures that protrude from the cell body of certain microorganisms, allowing them to move. In the context of the vaginal smear, the presence of flagellated eukaryotes indicates that the observed organisms are capable of motility, which is a characteristic feature of some protozoa, such as Trichomonas vaginalis, a common cause of vaginitis.

Vaginal Microbiota

The vaginal microbiota consists of a diverse community of microorganisms, including bacteria, fungi, and protozoa, that inhabit the vaginal environment. A healthy microbiota is crucial for maintaining vaginal health and preventing infections. An imbalance or presence of pathogenic organisms, such as those identified in the smear, can lead to conditions like bacterial vaginosis or sexually transmitted infections.