Final answer:
Giardiasis, caused by Giardia duodenalis, results in symptoms like diarrhea, nausea, and malabsorption of nutrients. Symptoms range from mild to severe, and treatment usually involves antibiotics prescribed after confirming infection through a stool test.
Step-by-step explanation:
Signs of Giardiasis Caused by Giardia duodenalis
The protozoan parasite Giardia duodenalis, also known as Giardia lamblia or Giardia intestinalis, is responsible for causing the infection giardiasis, which is a form of gastroenteritis. The signs and symptoms associated with this parasite can vary significantly from person to person. Common symptoms include diarrhea, nausea, stomach cramps, gas, greasy stool that indicates malabsorption of fats, and possibly dehydration. Symptoms usually appear one to three weeks after exposure to the parasite and can range from mild to severe.
Giardia organisms have a distinctive structure, including a large adhesive disk made up of microtubules that allows them to attach to the host's intestinal mucosa, interfering with nutrient absorption. Infected individuals may experience chronic infections, with symptoms such as weight loss, episodic diarrhea, and a malabsorption syndrome persisting due to the obstruction of nutrient uptake. If detected via a stool sample, a healthcare provider can prescribe antibiotics like Flagyl to treat giardiasis, though no vaccine is available to prevent the disease.