Other tests to help detect giardiasis or similar conditions
Content provided by Healthwise
Other tests to help detect giardiasis or similar conditions
Other tests may be done to help your doctor detect giardiasis or other organisms that may be causing long-term symptoms, especially if problems with malabsorption are occurring.
An upper gastrointestinal (UGI) series or a biopsy of the duodenum often is not specific enough to help in diagnosing giardiasis. But a biopsy may reveal organisms other than Giardia lamblia, such as cryptosporidium or microsporidium, or the presence of a condition such as celiac sprue.
The doctor may collect a sample of fluid or tissue from the duodenum if:
- A person has low levels of immune proteins in the blood (hypogammaglobulinemia).
- A person has AIDS and chronic diarrhea, but Giardia lamblia or other parasites are not found in the stool analysis.
- A person has long-term diarrhea, but prior tests have not determined a cause.
- Multiple diseases or causes are being considered, and more tests will help clarify the diagnosis.
Credits
| Author | Maria G. Essig, MS, ELS |
| Editor | Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA |
| Associate Editor | Pat Truman, MATC |
| Primary Medical Reviewer | E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine |
| Specialist Medical Reviewer | W. David Colby IV, MSc, MD, FRCPC - Infectious Disease |
| Last Updated | October 16, 2007 |
| Last updated: | October 16, 2007 |
|---|---|
| Author: | Maria G. Essig, MS, ELS |
| Reviewed By: | E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine, W. David Colby IV, MSc, MD, FRCPC - Infectious Disease |
| Editors: | Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Pat Truman, MATC |
© 1995-2007, Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.
This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. By using AOL Body, you indicate that you have read, understood, and agreed to our Terms of Service, and AOL Body Advertising Policy. Read more about our content partners.
Search
Where Does it Hurt?
If you're experiencing aches and pains we can help you find answers. Find out what your symptoms mean for your health.
