Giardiasis physical examination

Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1] Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: Yazan Daaboul, M.D.; Serge Korjian M.D.

Physical examination among patients with giardiasis is usually unremarkable. In the acute phase, patients with giardiasis often appear sick-looking. In the chronic phase, patients with giardiasis often appear malnourished with significant weight loss. Physical examination findings may include low-grade fever, dry mucus membranes (dehydration), and abdominal distention and tenderness.

Physical examination among patients with giardiasis is usually unremarkable, but may be positive for the following findings:

• In the acute phase, patients with giardiasis often appear sick-looking.
• In the chronic phase, patients with giardiasis often appear malnourished and wasted with significant weight loss.

• Low-grade fever (uncommon, may be intermittent)

• Urticaria may be present among patients with giardiasis who develop and allergic reaction

• Dry mucus membranes
• Red eye may be present among patients with ocular manifestations of giardiasis

• Abdominal distention
• Normoactive / hyperactive bowel sounds
• Abdominal tenderness

• Muscular pain and weakness may be present among patients who develop giardiasis-related myopathy
• Sensory neuropathy may be present among patients who report neurasthenia

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