Chilomastix mesnili
(kile-o-mas-tiks / mes-mil-ee)
Cyst
Transmission
Transmission occurs with the ingestion of cyst form from contaminated food or water. It is prevalent where there is poor sanitary conditions. Excystation occurs in the small intestine, colon and cecum.
Disease
This parasite is considered nonpathogenic. The infection is asymptomatic.
Diagnostic
- Laboratory specimen
- stool
- Testing
- wet mount without iodine (check for trophozoite motility)
- iodine wet mount (cyst)
- permanent smears made with trichrome or iron hematoxylin stain
Treatment
No treatment is required.