microbiology chapter 13 test bank Related

Review microbiology chapter 13 test bank related questions and content

A fecal sample from a patient with diarrhea revealed cysts with four nuclei. What is the most likely causative agent?

  • A. Entamoeba histolytica
  • B. Giardia lamblia
  • C. Trichomonas vaginalis
  • D. Balantidium coli
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Entamoeba histolytica. This is because the presence of cysts with four nuclei is characteristic of Entamoeba histolytica, a protozoan parasite that causes amoebic dysentery. Entamoeba histolytica cysts contain four nuclei, distinguishing them from other pathogens. Giardia lamblia and Trichomonas vaginalis are not associated with cysts containing four nuclei. Balantidium coli is a ciliated protozoan that does not typically form cysts with multiple nuclei. In summary, the unique feature of four nuclei in the cysts points towards Entamoeba histolytica as the most likely causative agent of the diarrhea in this patient.