Balantidiasis is a protozoal diseaseÑprimarily in the PhilippinesÑthat affects the digestive tract of
humans and other animals. It is caused by Balantidium coli, a ciliated, oval-shaped protozoa that is a
parasite of pigs. The encysted
form is transmitted from the pig's feces to humans through contaminated water. The parasite then develops into a motile form, penetrates the intestinal lining, and feeds on red blood cells. Balantidiasis is characterized by dysentery and ulcers of the large intestine. The disease is usually cured by treatment with a combination of drugs including tetracycline, emetine, and diiodohydroxyquin.