Giardiasis is an intestinal protozoal infection caused by Giardia species (primarily G Lamblia) that affect humans and other mammals. The parasite is found in bird droppings, but the role of birds in transmission to humans is unclear. Most infections are transmitted via contaminated surface water supplies, although person to-person transmission has been documented.
Giardia infections in humans are often asymptomatic, but about 50% of patients have diarrhea, abdominal pain, bloating, belching, nausea, and vomiting 3 days to 3 weeks after ingesting the parasite. A clinical clue may be new-onset lactose intolerance. Symptoms usually resolve after a week. Prolonged infection occurs in up to 20% of patients. People with hypochlorhydria or hypogammaglobulinemia, children, and travelers to endemic areas are at higher risk of infection.
Diagnosis: Stool exam and culture
Treatment if needed with Quinacrine, Tinidazole, nitazoxanide, or paromomycin.
