Diagnostic Findings [Last Modified: ]
Balantidiasis
[Balantidium coli]
Causal Agent Life Cycle Geographic Distribution Clinical Features Laboratory Diagnosis Treatment

Microscopy

Balantidium coli trophozoite in tissue Balantidium coli trophozoite Balantidium coli trophozoite
A B C

A: Balantidium coli trophozoites in tissue, hematoxylin and eosin stain.
B, C: Balantidium coli trophozoites.  These are characterized by:

  • their large size (40 µm to more than 70 µm).
  • the presence of cilia on the cell surface, particularly visible in (C).
  • a cytostome (arrows).
  • a bean shaped macronucleus which is often visible, see (B), and a smaller, less conspicuous micronucleus.
Balantidum coli cyst
D

D: Balantidium coli cyst, unstained.
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