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Review article: the management of Giardiasis
1Department of Internal Medicine, University of Texas South-Western Medical Center and Medical Service, Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA.
Alimentary Pharmacology & Therapeutics
|June 26, 1999
Summary
Giardiasis is an intestinal infection caused by Giardia intestinalis. Diagnosis involves stool examination, and treatment typically includes a 5-day course of metronidazole.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Parasitology
- Gastroenterology
Background:
- Giardiasis is an intestinal infection caused by the parasite Giardia intestinalis (also known as Giardia lamblia).
- Infection can range from asymptomatic to severe symptoms like diarrhea, weight loss, and failure to thrive.
- Commonly diagnosed in travelers and in day care settings.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide a comprehensive overview of Giardiasis.
- To detail the parasite's life cycle, diagnosis, and treatment options.
Main Methods:
- Diagnosis relies primarily on stool examination to identify Giardia intestinalis.
- Stool ELISA is effective for large-scale population screening.
- Small bowel biopsy may be used in complex cases or to exclude other conditions.
Main Results:
- Giardia intestinalis exists in cyst and trophozoite stages.
- Infection occurs through ingestion of as few as 10-25 cysts.
- Trophozoites attach to the small bowel but do not invade the tissue.
Conclusions:
- Metronidazole is the primary treatment for Giardiasis, administered orally for 5 days.
- Accurate diagnosis through stool analysis is crucial for effective management.
- Understanding the parasite's life cycle aids in preventing transmission.
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