This is a real-world medical entrance exam question, please give the true answer based on the question and selection. Topic name: Miscellaneous, Subject name: Pathology
Maltese cross appearance in peripheral blood smear is seen in which of the following infections? 
Select and explain. 
A. Plasmodium falciparum, B. Babesia microti, C. Leishmania chagasi, D. Trypanosoma cruzi
B: Babesia microti
Answer: B: Babesia microti 
Explanation: In blood smears, Babesia spp. superficially resemble P. falciparum ring stages, but lack hemozoin pigment, exhibit greater pleomorphism, and form characteristic tetrads (Maltese cross), which are diagnostic, if found.