Centers for Disease Control/Division of Parasitic Diseases and Malaria
EOL staff
Life cycle of Chilomastix mesnili The resistant cyst stage in the life cycle of Chilomastix is responsible for transmission. Both cysts and trophozoites can be found in the feces (diagnostic stages) (1). Infection occurs by the ingestion of cysts in contaminated water or food or by the fecal-oral route (via hands or fomites, i.e., inanimate objects such as towels that transmit infectious organisms to a host) (2). In the large (and possibly small) intestine, excystation releases trophozoites.From Centers for Disease Control Parasites and Health website.
Centers for Disease Control/Division of Parasitic Diseases and Malaria
EOL staff
Life cycle of Enteromonas hominisBoth cysts (dormant stage) and trophozoites (active stage) of Enteromonas hominis are shed in feces. Infection occurs after the ingestion of cysts in fecal-contaminated food or water, or on fomites (inanimate objects or substances capable of transferring pathogens). In the large (and possibly small) intestine, excystation releases trophozoites. Enteromonas hominis resides in the large intestine, where it is regarded as a commensal (benefiting from its host but doing no harm) and is not known to cause disease.FromCenters for Disease Control Parasites and Health website.