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Back to Infectious Diseases
Giardiasis
Giardia lamblia exists as both cysts & trophozoites
(mature form by which the protozoon is transmitted). The organism colonizes
and multiplies within the upper small intestine and may lead to intestinal
damage. This damage could lead to steatorrhea and
traveler's diarrhea.
Clinical manifestations
The incubation period is about two weeks (range 5 days to 20 days), but
it can be much longer.
Many patients have no symptoms at all. Main complaints are intermittent
diarrhea, steatorrhea, malabsorption, stomach pains, bloating, flatulence,
and some nausea and vomiting.
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Diagnosis
Stool microscopy reveals cysts in most patients.
Treatment
Metronidazole is effective in eradicating the disease.
A repeat stool microscopy test 2 months after the initiation of therapy
provides a good test for cure.
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