A stool analysis is done if the medical history and symptoms show that you may have giardiasis. A stool analysis also may be able to find other parasites as well as Giardia lamblia and may be helpful when the diagnosis is unclear.
Giardiasis is the most frequently diagnosed intestinal parasitic disease in the United States and among travelers with chronic diarrhea . While the parasite can be spread in different ways, water (drinking water and recreational water) is the most common mode of transmission. Signs and symptoms may vary and can last for 1 to 2 weeks or longer . In some cases, people infected with Giardia have no symptoms
Acute symptoms include:
- Diarrhea
- Gas
- Greasy stools that tend to float
- Stomach or abdominal cramps
- Upset stomach or nausea/vomiting
- Dehydration (loss of fluids)
Other, less common symptoms include itchy skin, hives, and swelling of the eye and joints. Sometimes, the symptoms of giardiasis might seem to resolve, only to come back again after several days or weeks. Giardiasis can cause weight loss and failure to absorb fat, lactose, vitamin A and vitamin B12
LC Sample ReportQD Sample Report
Test Code(s):
182204, 8625
Also Known As:
Stool for Giardia lamblia Giardiasis; Giardia Lamblia Direct Detection EIA
Preparation:
You must take your lab order to the lab to obtain a proper specimen container before collection. No fasting required. Specimen should be collected prior to initiation of antidiarrheal therapy or antiparasitic therapy.
Test Results:
1-2 days. May take longer based on weather, holiday or lab delays.
