Infectious Diseases and Microbiology - Balantidiasis ( Balantidium coli)

Infectious Diseases and Microbiology - Balantidiasis ( Balantidium coli) 
Balantidiasis is a medical condition.
Balantidium coli is a single-celled parasite which causes balantidiasis.
An organism belonging to the group of protozoa that possess cilia. It is the largest disease-causing single-celled organism that is known to infect humans. Presence of cysts and trophozoite forms.

​Transmission occurs when cyst-contaminated food or drink is ingested, or through the transmission of fecal matter via the oral route. Pigs are considered to be the main reservoir.
 The majority of human infections are asymptomatic. This condition is an acute infection that presents with symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, stomach discomfort, and watery diarrhea that contains blood and mucus, resembling the symptoms observed in cases of E histolytica infection.

Upon ingestion, the cyst walls disintegrate, allowing the trophozoites to migrate to the colon where they nourish themselves by consuming bacteria and fecal matter. Infrequently, trophozoites infiltrate the mucosa and submucosa of the large bowel and terminal ileum, resulting in the formation of abscesses and ulcerations.

Cysts can be identified through a direct examination of produced stool. Trophozoites with cilia can be observed in fecal samples from individuals with diarrhea. The examination should be conducted swiftly as trophozoites rapidly deteriorate.
Tetracycline is the preferred medication. Iodoquinol and metronidazole serve as substitute medications.