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Endolimax nana is the smallest of human intestinal
amoebae. Trophozoites measure 5-15 micrometers in length, usually 6-8
micrometers in length, and cysts 6-8 micrometers in diameter. Good
fixation and staining, such as with Schaudinn's fixative and an iron
hematoxylin stain, allow for relatively easy differentiation of the
trophozoites from those of the slightly larger Iodamoeba
buetschlii. However,
with todays rapid fixatives and stains, and the resulting nuclear
distortion, trophozoites of the two amoebae
are easily confused. Although considered a non-pathogen, recent studies
have shown E. nana to cause periodic, mild-moderate diarrhea and
intestinal
discomfort.
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