Giardiasis: controversy subject and prevention requirements

Abstract

Giardiasis is one of the most common diseases caused by parasites in Romania with a growing prevalence. It is estimated that over 20% of the population is infested with Giardia Lamblia. It is an infection caused by Giardia lamblia (Giardia intestinalis or Giardia duodenalis). This is a microscopic organism which attaches to the intestinal mucosa, it multiplies and prevents the absorption of nutrients from food. The parasite is mainly found in contaminated water, toilets, human and animal faeces, dirt from fruit and vegetables, kindergartens, nurseries etc. It is the most common parasite in the world and one of the major causes of diarrhoea and malabsorption; children are most commonly affected, while adults are rarely affected. Some studies have shown that in time it is possible to develop immunity to Giardia, that is why adults are much less affected by this parasite. Medical controversies regarding diagnosis and treatment of this disease are largely due to the fact that symptomatology is not perfectly specific. Giardiasis may cause or maintain allergic conditions of the skin, eyes and upper and lower respiratory tract, and the ENT symptoms produced by this disease create issues of differential diagnosis. The survey we conducted at the Military Emergency Hospital Iasi in 2007-2009 on 2015 patients showed that this disease is commonly met in the age group 41-60 years, that dog owners are more prone to carry the parasite and that coprologic tests are very important.