Giardiasis -cause, clinical features and treatment Custom Search Giardiasis is an intestinal infection caused by a protozoan called Giardia lamblia. The organism is transmitted through contaminated water or food. Like amoeba it occurs in two forms trophozoite and cyst. Cysts are passed in stool and can survive for long periods. When ingested they release the trophozoites in the intestine. Apart from man other animals like beavers, pigs and monkeys can also be infected and act as reservoirs. Clinical features: Mild infection may remain asymptomatic. The organism can cause acute diarrhea which may subside even without treatment. It can occasionally lead to malabsorption (impaired absorption of food from the intestine), chronic diarrhea and even loss of weight. The stools of affected children are usually foul smelling. There may be abdominal pain, nausea and flatulence. Fever is not common. Chronic giardiasis can cause alternating diarrhea and constipation. It can lead to fat malabsorption and deficiency of vitamin A and vitamin B12. Some children can also suffer from lactose intolerance due to deficiency of enzyme lactase as a result of damage to the lining of the intestine. Laboratory findings: The diagnosis can be confirmed by demonstrating the organism is stool. The trophozoite form of the organism is about 12 to 15 micrometer in size and is roughly pear shaped. It has two nuclei. It is better to examine fresh stool. The organism can also be demonstrated by aspirating fluid from the duodenum. Giardia antigen can also be demonstrated in stool.
Source: Image library of CDC Treatment: The condition can be successfully treated with a drug called metronidazole. It is given in a dose of 15mg/kg/day in 3 divided doses. The drug has a slight metallic taste and may cause nausea. Tinidazole is also effective. For those who do not respond to either of these Albendazole can be tried. Nitazoxanide is another highly effective drug. Prevention: Boiling of water for 10 minutes will eradicate giardia. Strict hand washing and eating well cooked food are other effective measures. Custom Search
Page last reviewed on 6th June 2010
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