[Evaluation of the virulence of Trichomonas vaginalis strains by the study of their cytopathogenic effect on cultured cells].

The pathogenicity level of 25 wild strains and 4 clones of Trichomonas vaginalis was evaluated on the observation of rapidity and intensity of cytopathogenic effect occurring in Mac Coy cells culture. It appeared more sensitive, faster and nearer of behaviour and cytopathogenicity in women than subcutaneous and intraperitoneal inoculation to mice. The lack of diffusible exotoxin and the cell adhesiveness of Trichomonas vaginalis observed, suggest that pathogenicity could be in connection with the presence of cell surface receptors.