In simple words: Balantidiasis is an infection of the intestines caused by a tiny parasite called Balantidium coli. You can get it by eating or drinking something that's been contaminated with the parasite, often from pig feces.Most people don't have any symptoms, but some experience diarrhea, stomach pain, and other digestive issues.

Balantidiasis is an intestinal infection caused by the ciliated protozoan parasite Balantidium coli.It is the largest protozoan known to infect humans. Infection typically occurs through ingestion of contaminated food or water containing infective cysts, often associated with areas where pigs are raised. While often asymptomatic, balantidiasis can cause symptoms ranging from mild diarrhea and abdominal discomfort to severe dysentery with bloody stools, fever, vomiting, and weight loss. In severe cases, complications such as colonic perforation can occur.

Example 1: A traveler returning from a developing country presents with persistent diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and bloody stools. Stool microscopy reveals Balantidium coli trophozoites, confirming the diagnosis of balantidiasis., An individual working on a pig farm experiences mild diarrhea and abdominal discomfort.A stool examination identifies Balantidium coli cysts, indicating asymptomatic balantidiasis., An immunocompromised patient develops severe balantidiasis with high fever, bloody diarrhea, and dehydration, requiring hospitalization and intravenous fluid therapy along with antiprotozoal medication.

Documentation should include signs and symptoms, travel history, occupational exposure (e.g., pig farming), laboratory results (stool microscopy, tissue biopsy), and treatment provided.