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

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

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Entamoeba histolytica. This protozoan parasite causes amoebic dysentery and is characterized by cysts with four nuclei in fecal smears. It is commonly associated with chronic diarrhea. Balantidium coli (B) presents with large ciliated trophozoites, not cysts. Giardia lamblia (C) has trophozoites with flagella and causes giardiasis, not cysts with four nuclei. Trichomonas hominis (D) typically has a pear-shaped trophozoite and is not associated with cysts with four nuclei.