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WHAT IS IT?
Giardiasis refers to a condition that is characterized by a GI infection with the parasitic protist Giardia lamblia.
WHY IS IT A PROBLEM?
This protists is a parasite that often causes diarrhea in patients.
WHAT MAKES US SUSPECT IT?
Risk factors: camper/hiker
Diarrhea that is foul smelling, watery, and fatty in nature is typical for this condition.
- Can be associated with bloating/flatus.
HOW DO WE CONFIRM A DIAGNOSIS?
Stool analysis (O&P) can reveal the presence of trophozoites or cysts in patient feces.
HOW DO WE TREAT IT?
Metronidazole is the preferred anti-protozoal medication used to treat infection with this organism.
HOW WELL DO THE PATIENTS DO?
Patients who are treated appropriately will recover fully form this infection.
WAS THERE A WAY TO PREVENT IT?
Avoiding ingestion of contaminated water is an important step in preventing this condition.
WHAT ELSE ARE WE WORRIED ABOUT?
X-linked agammaglobulinemia can present with giardiasis infections due to a lack of IgA
Giardiasis can be characterized as one of the opportunistic infections in patients with AIDS
OTHER HY FACTS?
IgA immunoglobulins help protect against gut infections like this one. Patients with repeat giardiasis are suspicious for IgA deficiency.
FURTHER READING
Page Updated: 06.25.2016