Definition:
Balantidiasis is an infection of the intestine with parasitic protozoa (Balantidium coli) that results in swelling of the intestine. The disease is commonly acquired thru direct or indirect exposure with pig fecal matter.
Symptoms and Signs:
The most common symptoms of Balantidiasis:
Asymptomatic
Fever
Nausea
Vomiting
Abdominal pain
Bloody diarrhea
Intestinal ulcers
Complications:
The list below is the common complications or problems experienced by individuals affected by this disease.
Perforation or puncture of the ulcer
Peritonitis Inflammation or swelling of the lining of the abdominal cavity.
Test:
Diagnosis depends on the determination of trophozoites in stool samples or in tissue accumulated during endoscopy and cysts are less commonly met. Balantidium coli are conceded occasionally and once outside the colon are quickly damaged. To improve detection of the parasite, constant collection of stool samples must be collected.
Diagnostic findings
Microscopy
Morphologic comparison with other intestinal parasites
The information on this site is for research purposes only and can not substitute for the advice of a medical professional. Ailments.com is not run by doctors and does not engage in the practice of medicine. Our site is not a medical authority, it is just a research tool for you to use in preparation for consulting with a doctor. We can not guarantee our information is accurate or up to date. Even if a statement made about a medical condition is accurate, it may not apply to you or your symptoms, so you should always consult a doctor. Nothing on our site should be construed as an attempt to offer or render a medical opinion or otherwise engage in the practice of medicine.
