Frequency of Giardiasis in Children Presenting with Chronic Diarrhea: Giardiasis in Children Presenting with Chronic Diarrhea

Muhammad Luqman Khan; Muhammadullah Hayat Ahmadzai; Momal Irshad; Sulaiman Khan; . Wajdan

doi:10.54393/pjhs.v7i4.3392

Authors

Muhammad Luqman Khan Department of Pediatrics, Hayatabad Medical Complex, Peshawar, Pakistan
Muhammadullah Hayat Ahmadzai Department of Pediatrics, Hayatabad Medical Complex, Peshawar, Pakistan
Momal Irshad Department of Pediatrics, Hayatabad Medical Complex, Peshawar, Pakistan
Sulaiman Khan Department of Surgery, Northwest General Hospital and Research Centre, Peshawar, Pakistan
. Wajdan Department of Paediatrics, Combined Military Hospital, Peshawar, Pakistan

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.54393/pjhs.v7i4.3392

Keywords:

Giardiasis, Chronic Diarrhea, Giardia duodenalis, Pediatric Infection, Protozoa, Malnutrition

Abstract

Giardiasis, caused by Giardia duodenalis, is a common enteric protozoan infection in children, particularly in low-resource settings. It may present with chronic diarrhea, weight loss, and dehydration, though many infections remain asymptomatic. Objectives: To determine the frequency of giardiasis among children aged 1 to 5 years presenting with chronic diarrhea. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted in the Department of Paediatrics, Khyber Teaching Hospital, Peshawar, over six months. A total of 203 children with chronic diarrhea were enrolled using non-probability consecutive sampling. Stool samples were examined by direct microscopy with saline and Lugol’s iodine staining, as well as formalin-ethyl acetate concentration. Giardiasis was diagnosed based on the presence of six or more cysts per coverslip at 40× magnification. Written informed consent was obtained from all parents/guardians. The study received ethical approval from the institutional review board (IRB Approval No: 935/DME/KMC). Results: Out of 203 children, 20 (9.9%) tested positive for Giardia duodenalis. No significant associations were found with age, gender, or weight. However, a statistically significant correlation was observed between giardiasis and duration of diarrhea. Children with symptoms lasting more than eight weeks had a higher prevalence (24.1%) compared to those with shorter duration (0.8%) (p=0.001). Conclusions: Prolonged diarrhea may be a clinical indicator of giardiasis in paediatric patients. Early detection and improved diagnostic methods are essential for timely treatment, especially in endemic areas with limited resources.

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