Atlas of Foreign Materials
Diatoms

A major group of algae, they are a common type of phytoplankton. Most are unicellular. They have a silica cell wall and are bilaterally symmetrical, but have many different forms. They are small enough that they can be inhaled and thus tend to be found in the nasal cavity and sinus area. Individuals working with diatomaceous earth would seem to be the most likely to show this material.

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Diatom aulacoseira medium power

Diatom aulacoseira high power

Diatom aulacoseira or melosira oil mag

Diatom aulacoseira or melosira 2 oil mag

Diatom cyclotella comta high power

Diatom cyclotella comta high power 2

Diatom cyclotella comta oil mag

Diatoms cyclotella comta and aulacoseira medium power

Diatoms cyclotella comta and aulacoseira high power

Images courtesy of Texas A&M University Baylor College of Dentistry