Life Cycle Notes

• Where does E. gingivalis typically reside in the mouth?

  Gum line
• Besides the gum line, where else can E. gingivalis trophozoites be found?

  Tonsillar crypts
• Why is accurate diagnosis of E. gingivalis and E. histolytica important?

  They can be found in sputum and pulmonary abscesses.
• Can E. gingivalis be present in individuals with good oral hygiene?

  Yes, it can be present irrespective of oral hygiene.
• How do trophozoites of E. gingivalis multiply?

  Binary fission
• What happens to E. gingivalis trophozoites when they come into contact with stomach juices?

  They cannot survive.
• In which specimens have trophozoites of E. gingivalis been recovered from women?

  Vaginal and cervical specimens
• What tends to happen to E. gingivalis trophozoites after the removal of intrauterine devices (IUDs)?

  They disappear spontaneously.
• Where is E. gingivalis typically found in healthy individuals?

  Mouth
• What is the primary source of nutrition for E. gingivalis trophozoites?

  Disintegrated cells