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Microscopic examination of a patient's duodenal contents revealed protozoa with two nuclei, four flagella, and a ventral adhesive disc. What is the likely causative agent?

  • A. Giardia lamblia
  • B. Leishmania donovani
  • C. Entamoeba coli
  • D. Trypanosoma gambiense
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Giardia lamblia. This protozoan matches the description of the causative agent because it has two nuclei, four flagella, and a ventral adhesive disc. Giardia lamblia is commonly found in the duodenum and causes giardiasis. The other choices can be eliminated because Leishmania donovani causes visceral leishmaniasis, not the described symptoms. Entamoeba coli is a non-pathogenic amoeba found in the large intestine. Trypanosoma gambiense causes African trypanosomiasis and is transmitted by the tsetse fly, not matching the described characteristics.