Giardia Lamblia Flashcards
What is Giardia lamblia?
A protozoan
What are the symptoms of giardia lamblia
Asymptomatic or self-limited diarrhea or can lead to chronic diarrhea, steatorrhea, frequent loose and pale greasy stools, malabsorption and weight loss
How is giardia lamblia treated?
Antibiotics if severe, otherwise self-limiting
What is giardia lamblia mode of transmission?
Fecal-oral through person to person, anal intercourse, or unfiltered water in lakes and streams
What are some methods of prevention for giardia lamblia
Water sanitation, personal hygiene, institutional worker training
Incubation period of giardia lamblia:
a. 1-3 days
b. 3-25 days
c. 7-30 days
b. 3-25 days
How is giardia lamblia diagnosed?
Cysts or trophozoites in feces
ELISA or DFA tests to find antigens in the stool
Who is primarily affected by it?
Children: outbreaks often occur in daycares, pools, waterparks, or other areas with unfiltered water
Is Giardia caused by a bacteria, a virus, parasite, or a toxin?
A parasite
