Giardia

Test code: X0017 - Ultrasensitive qualitative detection of Giardia by real time polymerase chain reaction

Giardia is a parasitic protozoan commonly found in the intestines of many animals, including cats, dogs, birds, horses, primates and other wildlife. This microscopic parasite clings to the surface of the intestine or floats free in the mucous lining the intestine. Some animals will carry Giardia organisms but appear healthy with no signs of disease. These carriers have a high potential for spreading the parasite. Infected animals can develop diarrhea, bloody or mucous stool, often accompanied by gas production. Infected young animals are especially likely to show these symptoms, and their health can be significantly affected. Previously low grade Giardia infestations can flare up into significant disease in animals of any age that are malnourished, stressed or undergoing strenuous physical activity.

Giardia infection in pets may result in infection of humans with whom they are in close contact. Clinical signs in humans are similar to those reported for other animals. Immunocompromised individuals such as AIDS or cancer patients are especially susceptible to infection. It is thus important to routinely screen these patients’ pets for Giardia.

Traditionally, fecal samples were examined for Giardia cysts under the microscope. This method is simple but its sensitivity is very low, leading to many false negative results. Even special staining and stringent specimen handling requirements do not result in adequate detection rates. However, specimen handling requirements for PCR detection of Giardia are less stringent than for other testing methods. More importantly, molecular detection by PCR is a faster, more sensitive and more specific means of detecting this parasite.

Utilities:

• Confirm the disease causing agent
• Ensure that animal groups or populations are free of Giardia
• Early prevention of spread of Giardia among an animal group or population
• Minimize human exposure to Giardia

Specimen requirements: 0.5 ml feces, or rectal swab.

For specimen types other than those listed here, please call to confirm specimen acceptability and shipping instructions.

For all specimen types, if there will be a delay in shipping, or during very warm weather, refrigerate specimens until shipped and ship with a cold pack unless more stringent shipping requirements are specified. Frozen specimens should be shipped so as to remain frozen in transit. See shipping instructions for more information.

Turnaround time: 2 business days

Methodology: Qualitative real time PCR

Normal range: Nondetected