Question

Giardia lamblia attaches to the epithelium wall where they actively feed, causing edema (swelling) and inflammation in surrounding tissue. Which stage of the parasite's life cycle is responsible for this attachment and feeding?

a) Trophozoites
b) Cysts
c) Sporozoites
d) Oocysts

Answer 1

In the life cycle of Giardia lamblia, the trophozoite stage is responsible for attaching to the host's epithelial wall and causing inflammation.

Step-by-step explanation:

The stage of Giardia lamblia's life cycle responsible for attachment and feeding on the epithelial walls of the host is the trophozoite stage. Trophozoites use a large adhesive disc composed of microtubules to attach to the intestinal mucosa. They do not invade the intestinal cells but cause inflammation through the release of substances that damage the cells, which can result in edema and impaired nutrient absorption.