Giardiasis.

Abstract

The protozoan Giardia lamblia has frequently been identified as the cause of epidemic gastrointestinal disease. Overseas travel (to both Third-World and industrialized countries), contaminated mountain streams and malfunctioning city water-supply systems are often cited as contributing factors. Giardiasis should be considered in the differential diagnosis of persistent diarrhea and other abdominal pain syndromes of unknown etiology. Aggressive diagnostic testing is required to identify the parasite. Appropriate treatment is highly successful.