Chilomastix mesnili

Non-pathogenic flagellate infesting human intestine that must be differentiated from trophozoites of amoebae & Giardia. Laboratory: 1) diagnosis made by recovering trophozoites or cysts in feces 2) trophozoites a) single nucleus generally not visible in wet mounts b) cytosome & spiral groove may be visible c) 3 anterior (end with nucleus) flagella are generally not visible in stained or formalin-fixed specimens d) measure 15 by 5-7 um (range 6-24 um in length) e) pear-shaped 3) cysts a) lemon-shaped containing cytosomal fibers with a safety-pin appearance b) 7-8 um

Properties

KINGDOM: animal PHYLUM: protozoa

References

Clinical Diagnosis & Management by Laboratory Methods, 19th edition, J.B. Henry (ed), W.B. Saunders Co., Philadelphia, PA. 1996, pg 1278