![Spironucleus muris](https://cvm.missouri.edu/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/dsasd.png)
Etiology: Spironucleus muris is a flagellated protozoan.
Incidence: The incidence of infection is low in conventional gerbil colonies.
Transmission: Ingestion of infective cysts passed in fecal material is the primary mode of transmission.
Distribution: Found primarily in the crypts of the duodenum and pyloric glands. In young animals, luminal protozoa are more numerous.
![photo courtesy of Dr. Jerrold Ward](https://cvm.missouri.edu/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Spironucleus-pylorus1000Xc-1.jpg)
Clinical Signs: Clinical signs are not usually observed.
Diagnosis: Direct smears of small intestinal contents reveal fast darting protozoa. Fecal PCR may also be used.
Diagnostic Morphology: Trophozoite: 7- 9 x 2- 3 µm, piriform (teardrop)-shaped or carrot-shaped, with 6 anterior flagella, 2 posterior flagella, 2 anterior nuclei and 2 separate axostyles.